Aaron Rodgers’ tenure with the New York Jets was a disaster. When the franchise traded for the Green Bay Packers legend two years ago the hope was that he would be the missing piece to a Super Bowl contender. Instead, he missed all of his first season after rupturing his Achilles. Then despite being healthy throughout 2024, the team finished with a sad 5-12 record.
It has been rumored for quite some time, but on Sunday it was reported that the club does not plan on bringing the four-time NFL MVP back in 2025. Now, the New York Jets must look for his replacement either in free agency or April’s NFL Draft.
With that in mind, let’s look at six players the franchise could target to replace Aaron Rodgers next season.
Also Read: New York Jets make decision on Aaron Rodgers’ future with the team
Jacoby Brissett
There is a very real chance the Jets look to go with a combination of a rookie QB and a veteran to mentor him in his debut season. There is no better option on the open market than nine-year veteran Jacoby Brissett. He had the same job last season in New England with Drake Maye, and the young QB looks like he could be a future star. New York could do the same with one of the rookies on this list.
Also Read: 2025 NFL Draft order – Picks by team, 2025 NFL Draft order right now and NFL Draft order by round
Shedeur Sanders
A couple of months ago it seemed like Colorado star Shedeur Sanders was likely to be a top three pick in April’s draft. However, the stock of other players is on the rise while Sanders is dropping on draft boards. The Jets have the seventh overall pick in 2025.
It is looking realistic that Sanders will be on the board when they are on the clock. There had been rumblings he could be selected by the Giants. But instead playing for the other New York football club looks likely.
Also Read: 2025 NFL mock draft – Latest Round 1 predictions for 2025 NFL Draft, No. 1 pick traded
Justin Fields
Sam Darnold is the best QB in NFL free agency this offseason. However, after making him the third overall pick in 2018, the New York Jets are not going to admit to their failure by giving him a massive contract in free agency now. The next best — and more affordable — option is former Chicago Bears star Justin Fields.
While he is unlikely to reach the potential of being the 11th pick in 2021, he is a very capable NFL quarterback. New York has good pieces on offense where Fields would be a strong option for Gang Green this offseason.
Also Read: NFL rumors identify 3 teams Davante Adams wants to play for next season
Jaxson Dart
Every NFL Draft has players that rise up draft boards during the lead-up to the event. Ole Miss star Jaxson Dart is this year’s fast-rising prospect. Many NFL analysts believe he is the third-best QB in this year’s class. He will definitely be available for New York at seven. However, he could be an intriguing trade-down option to get more picks and a player with potential. Pairing him with Brissett in 2025 would be a good route for New York to go.
Also Read: 5 Aaron Rodgers free agency landing spots this offseason
Jameis Winston
One-time Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston is probably the best backup QB in free agency this spring. While Brissett is a more steady and sound signal-caller, Winston has the talent to have some huge games any week. He also could throw three interceptions and cost a team a win any week. But as part of a combo with a rookie QB, Winston is a player the Jets will consider in free agency.
Jalen Milroe
Alabama star Jalen Milroe is in the second tier of QB prospects this year. He has the arm, athleticism, and size that should make him one of the top signal-callers in this class. However, when it comes to the finer nuances of being a QB at the next level he needs a lot of work. If the Jets want to go QB on Day 2 of the event, Milroe and his high upside will still be on the board.
Also Read: Highest paid NFL broadcasters – Salaries for Tony Romo, Troy Aikman, Tom Brady and more
New York Jets Aaron Rodgers Replacement Prediction
The New York Jets probably won’t land one of the top QBs on the free-agent market this spring. However, they will likely get one of the above-mentioned quarterback prospects. That is why the pairing of Brissett and Sanders is our prediction for the team next season.