New York Jets first-year head coach Aaron Glenn made it clear upon taking the job that he wanted nothing to do with veteran Aaron Rodgers. Instead, he and the front office pursued free agent Justin Fields.
Coming off a trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers the year before, Fields signed a two-year, $40 million deal with New York — essentially a trial run with no long-term commitment.
The Jets chose not to pursue their quarterback of the future in the 2025 draft but could address the position in 2026, a class expected to be loaded with talent.
In CBS Sports’ Mike Renner’s latest 2026 mock draft, he projected the Jets to have another top-10 pick, selecting at No. 7 overall. With it, Renner predicted New York would take Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer.
“Mateer has been flying up draft boards with his early-season performance,” Renner wrote. “While I still think he’s a bit of a project, Mateer goes to a spot where he doesn’t have to be thrust into action immediately. He’s a true dual-threat signal-caller with a lightning-quick release and ability to attack tight windows downfield.”
With Fields under contract for one more season, Mateer could sit for a year and adjust to the NFL’s speed before taking over in 2027. Like Fields, Mateer brings a dual-threat skill set with the ability to both run and throw.
Through four games this season, Mateer has led the Sooners to an undefeated start, throwing for 1,215 yards and rushing for 190. He has accounted for 11 total touchdowns with three interceptions. This has made him a favorite for the Heisman Trophy award.
As for Fields, he has played in just two games for the Jets. He was injured in New York’s Week 2 matchup against the Buffalo Bills, suffering a concussion. His timetable for return remains uncertain after missing Week 3's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
That has left the Jets off to an 0-3 start. Tyrod Taylor will be the starter until Fields return.