Jets linked to former Ravens and Cowboys 3,766-yard free agent QB

The New York Jets are looking to revamp their offense this offseason after a disastrous 2025 with Justin Fields at the helm.

While they've added Geno Smith in a trade, the Jets still need to round out the quarterback depth chart behind him. Aaron Glenn is likely eyeing another veteran and a rookie this offseason.

According to ESPN's Rich Cimini, one possible option the Jets could consider is a former Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys free agent QB in Cooper Rush.

Jets linked to Cooper Rush as backup QB option

"The Fields trade means the Jets need a veteran backup for Smith," Cimini writes. "... The options are swindling. One of them is re-signing Tyrod Taylor. ... Another option is Cooper Rush, 32, cut recently by the Baltimore Ravens."

While the Jets don't necessarily need to land the perfect backup option at quarterback after acquiring Smith from the Las Vegas Raiders, they do need to get a veteran who could start a game if needed.

Rush, who's started 16 games over the last five seasons with the Ravens and Cowboys, wouldn't be the worst option.

This past season in Baltimore, he struggled a bit, completing 65.4% of his passes for 303 yards, no touchdowns, but four interceptions.

More: Aaron Glenn predicted to add three QBs to NFL roster this offseason

But, back with the Cowboys, especially in 2024, Rush had 1,844 passing yards with 12 touchdowns and only five interceptions with a 60.7% completion rate across eight starts and 12 games.

In his NFL career, Rush has 3,766 passing yards with a 61.1% completion rate, 20 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions.

There are worse backup options than Rush, and with his struggles last year and release from the Ravens, he should be fairly cheap for the Jets to sign in free agency.

Cimini links the Jets to Rush, who could be a viable option in free agency to back up Smith for the 2026 NFL season.

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