Latest Jets quarterback buzz shows rumor mill is spiraling out of control

Because the New York Jets are in such bad shape as far as their quarterback room is concerned following the Justin Fields mistake, it's hard to look at any semi-realistic option for the Week 1 starter in 2026 and dismiss it out of hand. However, some options are clearly better than others.

The Jets may choose not to add an expensive quarterback, instead choosing to sign a cheaper short-term option. The nebulous nature of that term could lead to dozens of options being suggested as potential 2026 leaders, even some that show little to no potential of being an above-average starter.

Rich Cimini of ESPN believes that Denver Broncos backup Jarrett Stidham, who fans will remember from the AFC Championship game, is someone who could be on his way to New York, citing his familiarity with a member of the front office who brought him to town in Darren Mougey.

"Another one to watch is Jarrett Stidham, who is under contract with the Denver Broncos," Cimini said. "General manager Darren Mougey knows him from his time in Denver." Stidham coming in as a starter and not a high-end backup might be the last nail in Glenn's coffin as head coach.

ESPN's Rich Cimini tells Jets fans to watch Broncos QB Jarrett Stidham

Both Sean Payton and offensive coordinator Davis Webb seem to love Stidham, but a strong endorsement from Payton shouldn't influence how the Jets do business. Stidham has shown next to nothing that suggests that he can be a high-end starter in the NFL.

The former top recruit who played at Baylor and Auburn had a chance to showcase for teams against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game after Bo Nix's injury, but his hot start was soon ruined by three quarters of doing next to nothing and struggling under pressure.

Stidham is going to turn 30 in August, and he has five career starts to his name. Giving up NFL Draft capital to acquire him is a waste of time, as there are cheap veteran free agents who can provide a similar level of production. Why trade a pick to get a player like Stidham?

While the Jets are in such a bad spot as far as their quarterback play is concerned that they don't have the authority to really disregard any option out of hand as too ridiculous, Stidham would certainly rank among the least attractive quarterback options out there for this team.