Another year, another offseason. In truth, this time around looks incredibly similar to those of recent years: The Jets are selecting high in the NFL draft, they have more cap space than they know what to do with and there are plenty of positions to fill.
The biggest difference this offseason? New York isn’t searching for a franchise quarterback.
Sam Darnold was selected third overall in the 2018 NFL draft by the Jets and, so far, they have been pleased with the return on their investment. The 21-year-old has done well adjusting to the Big Apple and will be the focal point of new head coach Adam Gase’s offensive play-calling in 2019.
While Gang Green may not be searching for a starter under center, the backup position could be an entirely different story. Josh McCown, 39, was invaluable to Darnold’s maturation and development during his rookie season. That being said, the veteran signal caller’s contract is up. He could retire or sign elsewhere.
With no indication of what McCown will decide, the Jets can’t simply hope that he’ll want to play into his 40s. This begs the question, what are New York’s options at backup quarterback next season if McCown moves on?
Davis Webb
As of now, the most obvious choice to backup Darnold next season is Davis Webb.
After an unsuccessful stint with the neighboring Giants, Webb was offered a chance to continue developing with the Jets. While he was set to become a free agent this offseason, New York wisely tendered the Cal product this week.
The Jets may choose to stand pat at the quarterback position in the upcoming months. If that is the case, Webb would be the backup.
Mike Glennon
This wouldn’t be the first time that the Jets have shown interest in the 6-foot-6 signal caller.
Glennon was on New York’s radar after the 2016 season when his contract finally ran dry in Tampa Bay. The Jets were looking to move in a new direction and believed that he could be their man of the future.
Fortunately, Glennon chose to join the Chicago Bears and was beat out by then-rookie Mitchell Trubisky for the starting job. The 29-year-old spent last season in Arizona where he ultimately sat behind another rookie, Josh Rosen.
If Glennon can accept his fate as a backup, he would give the Jets another solid mentor for Darnold, as well as some experience.
Robert Griffin III
Once the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year, injuries have plagued RGIII’s career.
Robert Griffin III may not be the polarizing athlete that he once was, but he would give the Jets an intriguing name if nothing else, as well as a former top pick that can relate to the pressure Darnold is facing.
There is the possibility the Ravens try to re-sign the 29-year-old, especially with Baltimore set to trade Joe Flacco to Denver next week.
Trevor Siemian
If the Jets are looking to stay young, even at their backup spot, Siemian might be their best bet.
The 27-year-old spent his first three years in Denver before backing up Kirk Cousins in Minnesota last season. While he didn’t play a single snap for the Vikings, Siemian saw starter-time in his two years with the Broncos.
Another selling point on bringing in a guy like Siemian is the price tag. His salary in 2018 was under $2 million. More than a fair price for a seasoned backup.
Tom Savage
Savage got plenty of look with the Texans, opportunity repeatedly collided with adversity in Houston.
Savage hasn’t played an offensive snap since 2017, but that could work in the Jets’ favor. The 28-year-old would come with a cheap price tag and more than enough experience to stash behind Darnold next season.
While his numbers are nothing pretty, Savage has nine starts to his name.
