Darren

Mougey

Cimini also believes the Jets do not feel “pressured” to draft a quarterback in 2026 because they have three first-round picks in 2027. That said, Jets head coach Aaron Glenn, general manager Darren Mougey, OC Frank Reich and QB coach Bill Musgrave had dinner with Simpson last night and hosted him for a private workout today. The Jets hold the second, 16th, 33rd and 44th picks in this year’s draft. We certainly agree that the Jets have many needs, but finding a starting quarterback tops the list. Simpson could still end up in a Jets uniform next month.

This story comes from ESPN’s Rich Cimini, who also pointed out that Mougey said, “I don’t think (a trade up is) happening.” Much like the Raiders, who currently hold the No. 1 overall pick, the Jets are in QB purgatory. While the Raiders hope Fernando Mendoza will end their years-long struggle at the position, the Jets chances to do the same look bleak at the moment. Justin Fields remains under contract, but the team is likely to move on from him at some point this offseason after a disastrous 2025, and rookie UDFA Brady Cook’s 739-2-7 line didn’t do much to help his case for earning more playing time in 2026. The Jets have some work to do to figure out the quarterback position for next season. Whatever they end up doing, it seems highly unlikely it will involve trading for the 1.01.

Rapoport weaved the news into a segment where he explains that the Jets “next move” is to find a franchise quarterback by using the 2026 and 2027 NFL Draft picks haul that the team acquired before this season’s trade deadline. Rapoport indicates that a franchise quarterback could be found via the draft or by trading away picks. While Rapoport’s phrasing suggests the Jets plan to acquire a franchise quarterback this offseason, it is worth noting that the segment was backdropped by a graphic showing two first-round picks and two-round picks in 2026, plus three first-round picks and one second-round pick in 2027. Rapoport narrates by saying “Glenn is expected to be there” with GM Darren Mougey, “making those picks.” Given the Jets’ 2025 failures under Glenn, we assume the first-time head coach does not actually have guaranteed job security through 2027, though Rapoport’s phrasing leaves room for interpretation. Expect Glenn to get another shot in 2026 at the very least.

This was thought to be the case after Mougey bagged multiple interviews with the organization. He joins a franchise in the midst of massive turnaround in addition to the uncertainties at quarterback with the aging Aaron Rodgers. Mougey worked for the Broncos for 13 seasons, most recently being promoted to assistant general manager.

Bengals senior personnel executive Trey Brown is also getting a second interview. Per Pelissero, Commanders assistant GM Lance Newmark remains in the mix as well. Newmark has already been brought in for a second interview. With Aaron Glenn officially hired as the team’s next head coach, the Jets can finally hone in their general manager search. Mougey joined the Broncos as a scouting intern in 2012 and has quickly worked his way up the ranks. He was most recently promoted to assistant general manager in 2022.

Mougey broke his left hand last week, but wasn’t a threat to make the roster in the first place. He may be released later on with a settlement.

Mougey went undrafted of San Diego State in 2009 and spent last year’s offseason with the Falcons before being cut. He’ll suffer the same fate in Arizona this year.