The New York Jets have been chasing a long-term answer at quarterback for as long as most fans can remember.
With only three games remaining, fans’ frustration has shifted the conversation toward the draft, with many openly rooting for losses to improve New York’s draft position and increase the organization’s chances of landing a franchise signal-caller in April.
Speaking to reporters Friday, Jets head coach Aaron Glenn acknowledged that mindset while offering a reminder shaped by years around the league: the NFL draft is unpredictable, and true franchise quarterbacks do not always come from the very top of the board.
“You never know who you’ll get in this draft,” said Glenn. “You look at the Bradys, the Purdys, those guys. The thing is, it’s all about the evaluation process and what guy fits and what guy has the traits that you’re looking for when it comes to any player at any position.”
“It just doesn’t matter,” he continued. “I know there’s a stat about franchise quarterbacks, but you just never know what you’ll get in this draft.”
With the Jets facing second-round pick Tyler Shough this week, Aaron Glenn was asked if he believes you can find a franchise quarterback outside of the first round of the draft:
“You never know who you’ll get in this draft. You look at the Bradys, the Purdys, those guys. The… pic.twitter.com/nFfElF8Q3g
— Jets Videos (@snyjets) December 19, 2025
Glenn couldn’t be more on point. Finding a long-term answer at quarterback goes far beyond owning the highest pick or chasing the shiniest name in the draft. As the first-year head coach noted, there is far more that determines whether a young QB succeeds. A clear development plan and a strong supporting cast sit at the top of that list.
Jalen Hurts is the best example. A second-round pick who spent much of his rookie season developing, Hurts was surrounded by the right talent and backed by a great coaching staff. The fifth quarterback taken in his class, he has since reached two Super Bowls and now stands as the reigning Super Bowl MVP.
Ultimately, Jets fans need to understand that finding their long-term quarterback goes beyond taking the most attractive name or having the highest pick.
More importantly, it is about making the right evaluation and then building the structure that allows that pick to actually succeed.