The New York Jets’ pursuit of a franchise quarterback took a dramatic turn in 2024. While the team ultimately landed Aaron Rodgers, a recent revelation from Derek Carr sheds light on a potential alternative path. Carr’s near-signing with the Jets and the subsequent ripple effects of Rodgers’ injury raise crucial questions about the team’s trajectory.
A Missed Opportunity: Carr’s Desire to Join the Jets
Before the blockbuster trade for Aaron Rodgers, the Jets were in serious discussions with free agent quarterback Derek Carr. Carr, in a recent interview, confirmed his strong interest in joining the Jets, primarily due to his respect for head coach Robert Saleh. He was even willing to accept a below-market contract to facilitate the move, prioritizing winning above financial gain. The timing, however, wasn’t in his favor, as Carr wanted to thoroughly explore all available options before making a commitment.
Derek Carr in a Las Vegas Raiders uniform.
The Rodgers Gamble: High Risk, High Reward…and Injury
The Jets ultimately chose to pursue a trade for Aaron Rodgers, a future Hall of Famer. This decision came with a hefty price tag, both in terms of draft capital and salary cap space. The move initially generated immense excitement among Jets fans, but the optimism was short-lived. Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles injury just four snaps into the season, leaving the Jets scrambling for a replacement and derailing their playoff aspirations.
Comparing Scenarios: Carr vs. Rodgers
The contrasting scenarios of a Carr-led Jets versus the Rodgers gamble highlight the significant impact of this pivotal decision. With Carr, the Jets would have preserved valuable draft picks and maintained greater financial flexibility. They also wouldn’t have faced the devastating blow of losing their starting quarterback in the first game of the season.
Derek Carr in a Las Vegas Raiders uniform.
The Ripple Effect: Roster Construction and Draft Implications
The acquisition of Rodgers significantly influenced the Jets’ roster construction. Several veteran players were signed specifically to play alongside Rodgers, and the team’s salary cap was significantly impacted by his contract. Had Carr been the quarterback, the Jets would have had a different roster and likely a different draft strategy. They would have retained a higher draft position and additional picks, potentially leading to a vastly different team composition.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Jets’ Quarterback Position
The Jets now face an uncertain future at the quarterback position. Rodgers’ injury raises questions about his long-term viability, while Carr has found a new home with another team. The Jets’ decision to pursue Rodgers, while understandable given his pedigree, ultimately backfired due to unforeseen circumstances. This situation underscores the inherent risks and complexities of building a team around a single player, especially in a league as unpredictable as the NFL. The Jets will need to carefully evaluate their options and develop a long-term strategy to address their quarterback needs.
