4 quarterbacks the Jets could target after hiring Frank Reich as OC

The New York Jets have checked one of the two extremely important offensive boxes they needed to mark off in the 2026 NFL offseason, hiring former Indianapolis Colts and Carolina Panthers head coach Frank Reich to serve as their next offensive coordinator after firing Tanner Engstrand.

The second box, which is often harder to check off, is finding a quarterback that can operate Reich's offense as effectively as possible. In a very thin market, the Jets will likely try everything they can to overturn every stone while still keeping in touch with Reich's principles.

Looking back at his career, Reich has typically valued bigger quarterbacks with a quick processing brain. If he holds true to those ideals of what his starting quarterback should look like, he could end up demanding the Jets add a veteran.

These four are either soon-to-be free agents the Jets could sign or cheaper veterans who can be acquired for a relatively small sum in a trade. If they mesh well with Reich, the offense could take flight.

4 quarterbacks Jets may add after hiring Frank Reich as OC

4. Carson Wentz, Minnesota Vikings

This would be a backup signing, provided the Jets either take the Ty Simpson plunge or find another equally adept young quarterback. Reich had success with Wentz in both Philadelphia and Indianapolis, and it stands to reason that he could pick up his offense fairly quickly.

3. Kirk Cousins, Atlanta Falcons

Cousins is going to be 38 years old soon and has at most two seasons left in the NFL, but no one is questioning the idea that he can read a defense and deliver the ball accurately. Reich and the Jets may be banking on their offensive line mitigating Cousins' brutal lack of mobility under center.

2. Geno Smith, Las Vegas Raiders

Likewise, the Jets can also bet on the idea that going from the league's worst offensive line in Las Vegas to a solid young unit in New York can get Smith back on track. The former Jets second-round pick was playing some high-level football in Seattle before he moved on.

1. Jacoby Brissett, Arizona Cardinals

Not only is Brissett coming off the best statistical season of his career, but he also had success under Reich, throwing for 18 touchdowns and just six interceptions after Andrew Luck retired. When compared to teammate Kyler Murray, Brissett can be acquired for chump change in a hypothetical trade.