The Aaron Rodgers experiment in New York appears to be nearing its end. After a nightmarish 2023 season that ended just four snaps in with a torn Achilles, the New York Jets hoped Rodgers would rebound in 2024.
Instead, the season spiraled into a disaster, with New York finishing 5-12 and frustrations mounting between the quarterback and the organization. Now, the franchise is preparing to move on, setting the stage for one of the biggest quarterback decisions of the NFL offseason.
With Rodgers’ departure seemingly inevitable, the Jets have two primary paths: turning to a reliable veteran who can steady the ship or gambling on a younger, high-upside quarterback. According to recent reports, two names have emerged as frontrunners in the team’s search.
Tyrod Taylor Could Become New York Jets Next QB
The Jets’ first option is Tyrod Taylor, who signed a two-year deal with New York last offseason. A veteran with years of experience, Taylor has built a reputation as a steady, dependable quarterback who can competently manage an offense.
“Tyrod Taylor is the early favorite … and is beloved by many in the Jets locker room, namely Garrett Wilson,” The Athletic’s Zack Rosenblatt reported.
Taylor’s leadership and professionalism have made him a respected figure everywhere he’s played. While he may not be a long-term answer, he could serve as a starter who helps reinvigorate the frustrated locker room while the Jets figure out their next move.
Could The Jets Target Hendon Hooker?
If the Jets want a younger option with more upside, another name to watch is Hendon Hooker, the 27-year-old backup to Jared Goff in Detroit. A former standout at Tennessee, Hooker was once viewed as a high-ceiling prospect before an ACL injury hurt his draft stock.
Now, with a year of development under his belt, some believe he could be ready for a bigger role.
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According to Rosenblatt, “A staff filled with former Lions coaches could target Jared Goff’s backup, former Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker.”
During his two college seasons at Tennessee, Hooker scored an eye-popping 58 total touchdowns (rushing and passing) to just five interceptions, showcasing his efficiency and big-play ability.
Hooker’s arm strength and mobility could make him an intriguing fit in the Jets’ offense, but after two chaotic years with Rodgers, New York can’t afford to get its next quarterback decision wrong.
New York Needs More Than Just a QB Fix
While all eyes are on the quarterback search, New York has bigger problems to solve. The defense took a major step back after firing Robert Saleh, falling to league average despite ranking in the top five in both 2022 and 2023.
According to PFSN’s Defense+ metric, the Jets finished 2024 with a 75.5 (C) grade, a steep drop from their elite form in previous years.
Whether they roll with Taylor, take a chance on Hooker, or explore another option, the Jets’ next QB decision will shape the franchise’s trajectory for years to come. But if their defense doesn’t regain its form, even the right quarterback may not be enough to turn them into contenders.