The New York Jets’ plans at quarterback loom large entering the 2026 offseason.

Many fans assume the Jets will address the glaring need through the draft or by signing a bridge option in free agency. But the trade market should not be overlooked.

One backup quarterback fresh off a Super Bowl title could be an interesting option for the Jets to explore.

Could the NY Jets trade for Jalen Milroe?

Milroe, 23, was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the third round of the 2025 NFL draft. He sat behind former Jets first-round pick Sam Darnold all year long and was a part of a Super Bowl-winning team during his rookie campaign.

After leading Seattle to a Super Bowl title, it’s clear the Seahawks aren’t moving on from Darnold any time soon, which puts Milroe in an intriguing position.

What’s the long-term upside for Milroe, who logged 26 college starts at Alabama, to sit behind Darnold? As the fifth quarterback taken last April, he could have a legitimate chance to compete for a starting spot elsewhere.

Why Milroe and the Jets seem like a great fit

Dating back to last year’s pre-draft process, the Jets were seemingly interested in the 23-year-old.

After the now-former Jets quarterbacks coach, Charles London, put him through an individual workout at the NFL’s Scouting Combine, “key members” of the Jets’ coaching staff met with Milroe at his pro day.

If the Jets were to acquire Milroe, he would essentially be treated as a rookie. He logged under 30 starts in college and did not attempt a pass during his rookie season in Seattle.

That aligns perfectly with the Jets’ timeline.

New York could trade for the Alabama product while still signing a veteran bridge option in free agency, and the two can compete over the summer.

There is certainly a lot to like in Milroe, particularly his athleticism and lightning speed.

His 4.40 forty-yard dash at Alabama’s pro day in 2025 is tied for the third-fastest time a QB has recorded in NFL testing history, only trailing Michael Vick (4.33) and Lamar Jackson (4.34).

However, his game still certainly needs refinement, particularly his accuracy. He finished the 2024 NCAA season ranked 53rd among 128 qualified FBS quarterbacks in adjusted completion rate (72.6%).

For the Jets to acquire Milroe, it would most likely take some late-round draft capital, as New York owns six Day 3 draft picks in this year’s NFL draft.

The Jets clearly did their homework on him last year. It wouldn’t be surprising if they still feel strongly about him a year later, maybe even more so than some of the developmental options in this year’s draft class.

Adding Milroe alongside a veteran this offseason would give the Jets coverage at the position in 2026, along with a high-upside, developmental signal-caller, while they evaluate their long-term outlook under center.