The New York Jets are committed to Aaron Rodgers as their quarterback for the remainder of this season, banking on the 40-year-old veteran to lead them as far as he can. However, with Rodgers nearing the end of his career, the Jets are actively planning for a future beyond the four-time MVP. Rodgers is expected to start next season as well, given his contract runs through 2025. However, at 42 by the end of next year, Rodgers has shown some decline in recent seasons, including a tendency toward serious injuries.
To secure a long-term option at quarterback, the Jets are likely considering either selecting a top prospect in next year’s draft or acquiring a young quarterback through a trade or free agency. The idea would be to bring in someone who could learn under Rodgers for a season or so, with a move possibly coming as soon as the November 5 trade deadline.
Bradley Locker of Pro Football Focus commented on October 30 that it “would be wise for the Jets to look for a long-term solution at quarterback,” suggesting that drafting a quarterback early isn’t out of the question, especially considering that the Green Bay Packers took Jordan Love in the 2020 draft to eventually succeed Rodgers.
Among potential targets, Justin Fields of the Pittsburgh Steelers stands out. In the final year of his contract, Fields was recently benched in favor of Russell Wilson, which could make him available. Another intriguing option, as noted by Matt Downey of Chat Sports, is Indianapolis Colts’ Anthony Richardson. Recently benched in favor of veteran Joe Flacco, Richardson’s future with the Colts looks uncertain. Downey believes this could signal the beginning of the end for Richardson in Indianapolis.
“While the Colts claim they’re giving Richardson a break, benching a young quarterback is often a signal of things to come,” Downey said, adding that the Jets will need a new quarterback sooner or later with Rodgers’ limited time left in the NFL.
At just 22 years old, Richardson brings unique athleticism to the quarterback position and is currently on a manageable rookie contract (four years, $34 million) with a fifth-year option as the No. 4 overall pick in 2023. Despite battling injuries and inconsistencies—playing only four games in his rookie season and posting a 44.4% completion rate this year—he possesses significant upside. With the right coaching and development, Richardson could be an exciting project for a team like the Jets, who are preparing for the post-Rodgers era.
