2. New York Jets
The New York Jets are embracing the tank after being the biggest sellers at the trade deadline. This team is actively building for the future and will likely try to find their franchise quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, the success of Smith and Sam Darnold away from the Big Apple should show Woody Johnson the importance of having a veteran starter.
Smith and Darnold both started right out of the gate and flamed out in New York. If the Jets want to avoid history repeating itself, they should sign Kyler Murray. Justin Fields is not getting the job done, and Woody Johnson’s comments suggest he won’t return in 2026. Murray is a perfectly adequate bridge quarterback who won’t prevent a rookie from seeing the field if he’s great right away, but he also won’t struggle and force a rookie to play before he’s ready.
