Could Joe Burrow be the New York Jets' starting QB next season?
The Cincinnati Bengals made a blockbuster trade this offseason, acquiring Dexter Lawrence from the New York Giants.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Bengals are entering a crucial season regarding superstar QB Joe Burrow's future.
"This is considered to be a hugely significant season for Joe Burrow and his future in Cincinnati. If the Bengals cannot turn it around, some have speculated about whether Burrow might wonder whether he is better off playing in another NFL city. The Bengals had to give Burrow and the franchise the best chance to win now. Lawrence does that, more than any player they could have picked at No. 10."
What if the Bengals struggle next season and Burrow requests a trade? NFL analyst Moe Moton of Bleacher Report believes the New York Jets are a logical landing spot for the talented QB.
"Gang Green has three first-round picks in the 2027 draft: its own selection, the Indianapolis Colts' pick and the Dallas Cowboys' pick," Moton wrote. "If Cincinnati trades Burrow, it could find his replacement in a potential quarterback-rich draft class with a treasure chest of picks. The Jets may have a top-five selection, but even if they don't, the Bengals can use the draft capital to move up for a prospect."
The Jets have been looking for a franchise QB for a long, long, long time. Hall of Famer Joe Namath is the last Jets QB who was elite.
Burrow is one of the best QBs in the NFL. The three-time Pro Bowler has 20,810 career passing yards and 157 career touchdown passes in 77 games. The LSU product led the Bengals to Super Bowl LVI, a game the Los Angeles Rams won, 23-20.
Cincinnati missed the playoffs in 2023, 2024 and 2025. If the team misses the postseason again in 2026, Burrow might decide it's time to take his talents elsewhere.
Since he doesn't have a no-trade clause, Burrow wouldn't be able to control his future should he request a trade. As Moton says, the Jets have three first-round picks in the 2027 draft. They might have the best offer for Burrow should a trade request take place.
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