Notre Dame Star Separating Himself as Potential Jets Future Franchise-Changer

As we look at the season the New York Jets  have had, it's almost crazy to think about how bad this team is when we factor in that quarterback Geno Smith hasn't been terrible. 

I know that many fans haven't been excited about what Smith has done on the offensive side of the football, but the reality is that the numbers are the numbers. Smith hasn't been elite by any means, but he's been a lot better than most other Jets quarterbacks throughout the past few decades. 

While that hasn't exactly led to more wins, which is ultimately the biggest concern for this organization, it's still interesting to think that the Jets finally got quarterback play at a somewhat competent level, and they still can't win games. 

Whether we want to blame that on coaching, the talent around him, or anything in between, the Jets still aren't winning at a high enough level.

Due to Smith's age, it was evident entering the season that New York was going to have to figure out its long-term plans at the position at some point over the next few years. 

Whether that ends up coming in the 2027 NFL Draft remains to be seen, as this quarterback class I wouldn't classify as elite by any means. Regarding the Jets' draft picks in this upcoming 2027 class, they do have three first-rounders, and multiple beyond that, so they could package some of those picks for a proven veteran.

There's also a scenario in which the Jets go after a college quarterback, which one writer recently predicted would happen by selecting C.J. Carr, the Notre Dame QB who has played very well over the past couple of weeks.

“As for the Jets, I've admittedly been slow to come around on C.J. Carr. But after a monster showing to beat Miami last week, I'm ready to accept the fate that the Notre Dame quarterback has the goods. 

“He has tremendous poise and an underrated arm that he's been showing off more as the season has gone on. Furthermore, he's a solid enough athlete and has routinely come up with his best performances in the biggest moments this season. New York needs that type of player for the future at the position,” Cody Williams wrote.

Carr was absolutely great against Miami this past Saturday, not only showing that he has a real opportunity to lead the Irish to a national championship, but also arguably be the best quarterback in the country. 

While the quarterback play hasn't been great this year, I think Carr is somebody that we should be taking a look at. The Jets are obviously looking for that prototypical quarterback who can come in and make plays for them, and all indications point to him being that guy.