Jets add intriguing quarterback after NFL Draft as free agent signing behind Justin Fields
Context:
In the aftermath of the 2025 NFL Draft, the New York Jets enhanced their quarterback depth by signing Brady Cook, a promising undrafted free agent from Missouri. Despite an injury-marred final season, Cook demonstrated his versatility as a three-year starter, amassing impressive statistics with 21 passing touchdowns and eight rushing touchdowns in 2023, and maintaining efficiency when he played in 2024. NFL analyst Lance Zierlein noted Cook's athleticism and arm talent, although there are concerns regarding his consistency in timing and accuracy. Cook joins a competitive quarterback roster led by Justin Fields, where he is expected to quickly surpass Adrian Martinez and potentially challenge Jordan Travis for a backup role. This strategic addition positions Cook as a potential long-term backup option as the team looks towards the future beyond veteran Tyrod Taylor's tenure.
Dive Deeper:
The New York Jets bolstered their quarterback lineup immediately after the 2025 NFL Draft by securing Brady Cook from the SEC as a priority undrafted free agent.
Brady Cook, who played for Missouri, had an injury-affected final college season but was a versatile three-year starter with notable performances including 21 passing touchdowns and eight rushing touchdowns in 2023.
In 2024, despite limited playtime due to injuries, Cook maintained his efficiency, recording 11 touchdowns against two interceptions and adding five rushing touchdowns.
Cook was originally a three-star recruit from Saint Louis Chaminade and chose to play for his home state team, the Missouri Tigers.
NFL analyst Lance Zierlein praised Cook's athleticism and arm talent but highlighted concerns about his timing and accuracy, although he noted Cook's improved command of the offense in 2023.
The Jets' quarterback depth chart is crowded, featuring Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor, Jordan Travis, and Adrian Martinez, with Cook expected to quickly overtake Martinez and potentially compete with Travis.
Cook's addition strengthens the Jets' quarterback options, providing a promising backup who could eventually fill a long-term role once veteran Tyrod Taylor exits the NFL.
The New York Jets strengthened their quarterback depth chart in the immediate aftermath of the 2025 NFL Draft.
One of their priority undrafted free agent signings was a QB from the SEC.
Brady Cook of Missouri is officially a Jet.
Cook had an injury-plagued final season at Mizzou, but he was a three-year starter who could do it all.
The 6-foot tall Cook threw 21 TDs and ran for eight more in 2023.
He missed lots of time in 2024 but still threw 11 TDs to just two interceptions while running five more times into the end zone.
Cook was once a three-star prospect out of Saint Louis Chaminade who stayed home to play for the Tigers.
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NFL.com's Lance Zierlein saw some reason to like Cook with some concerns:
“Tantalizing prospect thanks to his athleticism and arm talent but the more I studied, the more doubt creeped in. Cook played with a better command of the offense in 2023, which led to better in-game rhythm and results. He can make every NFL throw but struggles to make them with consistent timing and accuracy."
The Jets have a crowded QB depth chart, starting with free agent signee Justin Fields.
Behind him are Tyrod Taylor, Jordan Travis and Adrian Martinez.
Cook should be able to leapfrog Martinez quickly. If he can beat out Travis, Cook can set himself up as a potential long-term backup whenever the veteran Taylor moves on from the NFL.
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