The New York Jets strengthened their quarterback depth by signing Brady Cook as a priority undrafted free agent following the 2025 NFL Draft. He’ll join a franchise intent on rebuilding itself after the failed Aaron Rodgers experiment.
Cook, a former standout at Missouri, now joins a competitive quarterback room in New York, where he’ll be fighting for a spot on the team’s final 53-man roster. He could have a real chance at sticking around if he can produce at rookie minicamps and training camp.
Brady Cook’s Path to Making the Jets’ Final Roster
Cook’s addition gives the Jets another quarterback option behind newly acquired starter Justin Fields. Veterans Tyrod Taylor, Jordan Travis, and Adrian Martinez round out a crowded depth chart, but Cook has a realistic opportunity to rise through the ranks.
Based on early assessments, Cook could quickly surpass Martinez and challenge Travis for a higher role. His performance at Missouri supports his chances.
In 2023, he threw for 3,317 yards and 21 touchdowns, while rushing for eight more scores. Even in 2024, despite missing time, Cook delivered 11 touchdown passes to only two interceptions and added five rushing touchdowns.
At the NFL Combine, he posted a 4.59-second 40-yard dash, a 37-inch vertical jump, and a 10-foot-8 broad jump, showcasing his athleticism.
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein captured the promise and concerns around Cook’s game: “Tantalizing prospect thanks to his athleticism and arm talent, but the more I studied, the more doubt crept in. Cook played with a better command of the offense in 2023, which led to better in-game rhythm and results. He can make every NFL throw but struggles to make them with consistent timing and accuracy.”
Cook’s scouting report by PFSN highlights his strong off-platform throwing ability, solid short-range accuracy, and impressive mobility. However, concerns about his average arm strength, occasional delayed decision-making, and mechanical inconsistencies could limit his upside as a long-term starter.
PFSN’s Ian Cummings summed it up: “Though he doesn’t have much appeal as a developmental starter, Cook’s athleticism, toughness, leadership ability, and baseline operational traits give him an appealing floor as a potential backup and safety blanket, especially for schemes that value QB rushing ability.”
Still, Cook’s leadership qualities, athleticism, and solid fundamentals make him an appealing developmental backup. His college career — rising from a local recruit at Missouri to a three-year starter and team captain — speaks to his work ethic, something teams value in depth quarterbacks.
With Fields firmly at QB1 and Taylor as a steady veteran backup, Cook’s realistic path involves beating out Martinez and possibly challenging Travis for a higher role. If he performs well during offseason activities and preseason games, Cook could secure a spot as a developmental third quarterback with long-term backup potential.
Amazing speed, tough as nails and always looking down field
Legit sleeper! Hope they give him a legit chance to make team.