Jets Lock in QB Depth with Taylor, Rush in Sight

0:00It's March 27. This is NFL News today, AI-powered stories shaping the season. The New York Jets have locked in Geno Smith as their starting quarterback for the 2026 season. Behind him, they have undrafted free agent Brady Cook from last year in veteran Bayley Zappy, a former fourth-round pick. The team traded away Justin Fields recently, leaving a clear need for a more experienced backup. Earlier this week reports highlighted Tyra Taylor and Cooper Rush as the top candidates to fill that role. The free agent market for quarterbacks has slowed down a lot, with most veterans signing elsewhere. Still, the Jets aren't rushing a deal right now. Fans and analysts agree that depth at quarterback is crucial, especially with injury risks in the NFL. An experienced backup could stabilize things if Smith misses time, and pairing one with younger talent would aid development across the room. The team has been busy working out draft prospects, including former LSU quarterback Garrett Newsmeyer.

1:01With the NFL draft starting April 23, New York holds picks like number 16, 33, and 44, and might target a mid-round. Quarterback option. For now, the Jets seem content to monitor Taylor and Rush while the draft picture clears up, setting them up smartly for training camp.