There is no doubt the New York Jets will be in the quarterback market this offseason, but there is no clear top target. The team has been linked to drafting a quarterback, pursuing one in free agency, or acquiring one via trade.
Earlier today on WFAN Sports Radio’s Evan and Tiki Show, legendary former New York Giants running back Tiki Barber suggested that the Jets should pursue a specific quarterback this offseason: Kirk Cousins, who is currently with the Atlanta Falcons.
“Kirk Cousins is a viable starter in this league. And I’m not saying he’s your (the Jets’) future. I’m just saying he’s a viable starter in this league if you cannot find another way to get a quarterback,” said Barber.
Barber suggested that he sees potential for an NFL coaching career in Cousins’ future, which is another quality he likes about the 37-year-old veteran.
“The real reason I think Kirk Cousins could be important for the New York Jets is that I see coaching in Kirk Cousins’ future,” said Barber. “He could be this player/coach who isn’t really coaching yet, but is trying to play and help this team win football games. Then, when he decides to retire in two years, Aaron Glenn, if he makes it, has a built-in quarterback coach who could soon become the offensive coordinator of his club.”
GettyTiki Barber thinks that Kirk Cousins could be a good fit for the Jets.
The Logic Behind New York Targeting Kirk Cousins
With 25-year-old Michael Penix Jr. on the Falcons’ roster, Cousins is expected to be released this offseason, according to Josh Kendall and Jeff Howe of The Athletic.
This could benefit the Jets, as they would not have to make a trade for the veteran quarterback, and his fit in New York is arguably underrated.
New York’s head coach Aaron Glenn and GM Darren Mougey will face a lot of pressure to win games next season, as the team went 3-14 in the duo’s first year leading the franchise.
Cousins is a proven veteran and could be the perfect player to come in and keep the team competitive in games. He is not a question mark or unproven like a rookie quarterback or someone like Malik Willis of the Green Bay Packers, who is arguably the hottest name at the position in free agency.
GettyQB Kirk Cousins.
Cousins Could Be the Safe Choice for Jets GM and Head Coach
Although the 37-year-old veteran may not have a super high ceiling, Glenn and Mougey will need to win games next season, and the best way to make a good impression on the fanbase is by finding a reliable quarterback.
Cousins could be the safest choice, as he offers certainty compared to other potential options. The veteran is a highly accurate passer who makes limited mistakes, which would put the Jets in a much stronger position entering next season and help improve their passing offense.
Last season as a starter for the Falcons, Cousins posted a 5-3 record, according to StatMuse, demonstrating that he can still perform at a high level.
GettyCousins is arguably the safest QB option for the Jets this offseason.
Kirk Cousins: The Jets’ Potential Answer at QB in 2026