The New York Jets need a franchise quarterback. How about taking a swing on Los Angeles Chargers star Justin Herbert?
In a story published Wednesday, Spotrac managing editor Mike Ginnitti proposed that the Jets acquire Herbert before the NFL trade deadline on Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. ET. He would replace QB Geno Smith, who’s gone 2-5 in seven starts.
Expert explains Justin Herbert trade idea
“Now we’re cooking,” wrote Ginnitti. “The Jets are spiraling after a devastating loss to Miami and are currently poised to make three Top 15 selections in next year’s draft. If they don’t feel as though their next QB1 exists in this upcoming class, a phone call to the (win-less) Chargers certainly makes some sense, albeit overly aggressive.”
The Jets currently own picks No. 7, No. 10 and No. 12 in the 2027 NFL Draft. They could send one of those selections to the Chargers (0-6) in a trade package for Herbert, whose deal runs through 2029 and has $162.5M in cash remaining. (The deal contains a potential out before the 2029 season.)
Although New York has the draft capital to pull off a trade for a high-profile QB, that remains a pipe dream.
Why a Justin Herbert trade to the Jets is a pipe dream
Herbert has a full no-trade clause in his contract, which he must waive to go elsewhere. Why would he want to play for the Jets?
Head coach Aaron Glenn, who has gone 5-19 in his first two seasons with the Jets, is on the hot seat. If New York fires Glenn, it could still botch its next coaching hire. The AFC East squad, which hasn’t made the playoffs since 2010, is one of the most dysfunctional organizations in both the NFL and professional sports.
Herbert, 28, hasn’t won a playoff game in seven seasons with L.A. If he did request a trade, he would want to go somewhere that gives him a chance to win a Super Bowl, perhaps the Minnesota Vikings.
The Vikings (6-0) are a logical destination for Herbert. Minnesota starting QB Kyler Murray, who has posted a 45.8 figure in ESPN’s QBR metric (No. 25 in the NFL), hasn’t proved he’s the answer for the NFC North franchise. Plus, 2020 Offensive Rookie of the Year Herbert could thrive under HC Kevin O’Connell, an offensive savant.
A Herbert trade remains highly unlikely. Teams typically don’t deal franchise QBs in season, even when they’re struggling. He has thrown five touchdown passes against eight interceptions this season.
Herbert’s stuck in a mess with the Chargers, but he doesn’t want to step into another with the Jets.
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