Could Case Keenum be a Jets backup plan in free agency?

It’s expected the New York Jets will be heavy hitters in free agency thanks to having a plethora of salary cap space to play with. If they don’t break the bank on a top free agent quarterback, could Case Keenum be a backup plan?

It’s no secret that the New York Jets are once again in the market for another quarterback or two this offseason. I previously wrote about how I’d fix the quarterback situation of the Jets which is a plan that involves acquiring Kirk Cousins, using the No. 6 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft on a top quarterback and even keeping Christian Hackenberg.

Yeah, I know, it’s a diabolical plan but in my opinion, the Jets need better players, especially new ones, when it comes to the most important position on the team. No one is sure what Hackenberg can do as a starter but your guess is as good as mine if he can ever be an effective quarterback in the NFL.

Looking at all the potential free agent quarterbacks that could hit free agency, if Cousins isn’t available or heads to another team, the Jets could make Case Keenum a backup plan. Keenum fits everything they’re trying to accomplish on offense since he’s experienced and won’t command as much money like Cousins would in free agency. Since Keenum will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason, should he hit the market, the Jets should also consider bringing him into the mix.

In the grand scheme of things, the Jets need another veteran quarterback that has more upside than what we’ve seen under center over the past few years. Again, the Jets should select the best available quarterback with their No. 6 overall pick to backup someone like Keenum until their time comes. Remember, it’s best to have more options instead of less for the Jets to finally address their quarterback situation once and for all.

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Keenum is coming off his best season yet and at this point in time, could take (and potentially win) a Super Bowl with the Minnesota Vikings.

Of course, his price tag will go up if he does take them all the way and wins but considering the Jets should still draft a potential franchise quarterback in addition to acquiring Keenum, means they would have an ideal situation at quarterback for 2018 and beyond. This scenario would allow Keenum to start and hold the fort until that drafted player is ultimately ready.

Overall, Keenum would be an instant starter, a leader among men, and someone capable of being an above average quarterback for a team that is developing for a brighter future. Since the Jets have other areas of need this offseason, instead of breaking the bank on Cousins, they could save money by acquiring Keenum and use that salary cap money elsewhere. Besides quarterback, the Jets have to address their issues on the offensive line, cornerback, add a pass rusher, and could use another offensive weapon in the mix since who knows what the end result with Robby Anderson will be after his shocking arrest this offseason.