Is it safe to assume the New York Jets will be “in” on every available free agent quarterback on the open market this offseason?

After an abysmal 3-14 campaign in 2025, it’s not outlandish to think the answer will be “yes”.

Gang Green fielded the worst passing offense in football last season and started three different quarterbacks over the course of the season. The poor production and instability underscore that New York’s top need this offseason will be at the game’s most important position.

Unfortunately for the Jets, there isn’t a “can’t miss” signal-caller on the open market or available to them in the 2026 draft.

Several names, like Malik Willis in Green Bay, Tanner McKee in Philadelphia, Kyler Murray in Arizona, Jimmy Garoppolo in Los Angeles, and Marcus Mariota in Washington, have been tied to as free agency gets closer.

One additional name will soon be added to that list, and he arguably has the best resume of them all.

Atlanta Falcons make QB decision

Atlanta Falcons general manager Ian Cunningham did not hide anything during his interview on 92.9 The Game in Atlanta ahead of the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine.

The team will be releasing four-time Pro Bowl signal-caller Kirk Cousins at the start of the league year. Originally signed by the Falcons to a whopping $180 million deal, Cousins’ tenure in Atlanta is one of the biggest disappointments in free agent history.

It was a move that always seemed like a weird fit. Cousins left a comfy situation with the Minnesota Vikings to join a team that drafted a quarterback in the top 10 two months later. The Michael Penix draft selection in 2024 sent shockwaves through the NFL and ultimately strained the relationship between Cousins and the regime.

His play didn’t help matters. Coming off an Achilles injury the previous year, Cousins led the league in interceptions in 2024 and was later benched by the coaching staff as Atlanta held a 7-7 record. He started 2025 as a backup before starting eight games, going 5-3.

By the time the 2026 season kicks off, Cousins will be 38 years old. His arrival in free agency will make him one of the top quarterbacks available on the open market.

While there will be questions about whether the Michigan State product will even keep playing, the announcement from Atlanta should keep the Jets intrigued moving forward.

Jets’ QB room

Cousins doesn’t sound like a man who plans to retire.

Speaking with Front Office Sports on Radio Row at the Super Bowl, he remained committed to playing in the NFL.

“I’ll keep an open mind,” Cousins said. “I feel really rejuvenated. I think it was great to be able to have a great run down the stretch with the Falcons. Even though we didn’t make the playoffs, we were able to win the last four games. (I) really have a joy playing, enjoyed the guys, and so want to get back out there and be able to get back at it again.”

Could the Jets look to target Cousins to lead their quarterback room in 2026?

New York will have the cap space—around $75 million, with a chance to add even more. They can also offer the opportunity to start. Unless the organization trades up for Indiana prospect Fernando Mendoza, any quarterback taken in April’s draft will need time to sit behind a veteran.

The challenge for Gang Green, though, is their inability to offer a competent supporting cast for a veteran like Cousins.

While the Jets’ offensive line can be touted as one of the most up-and-coming units in the league, their barren collection of wide receivers outside of Garrett Wilson will turn many quarterbacks away. New York doesn’t have enough reliable weapons to entice a quarterback like Cousins to play for them.

There is also the matter of the Vikings, Cousins’ former team, potentially looking to have a reunion. They can offer a receiving room of Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and Jalen Nailor, along with an excellent play-caller in Kevin O’Connell.

New York won’t win this competition.

Cousins’ future availability will spark a bidding war among quarterback-needy teams like the Jets. However, his presence increases the quantity of options on the market, which should improve New York’s confidence in bringing in a signal-caller who can provide an upgrade.

It may not end up being the four-time Pro Bowler, but Cousins is undoubtedly an option the Jets should consider.