The New York Jets quarterback situation is once again under the microscope. After Justin Fields struggled in the first season of his two-year, $40 million deal, speculation has intensified about who will take the reins in 2026. And now, the Jets are predicted to trade for Saints’ 1,586-yard passer.
According to ESPN analyst Seth Walder, the New York Jets may look beyond big-name options like Kyler Murray and instead pursue New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler who had great numbers across last season compared to other players in his position.
If the prediction proves accurate, the Jets move to trade for Saints’ 1,586-yard passer could signal a cost-effective reset at the most important position in football.
Why the New York Jets Could Trade for Rattler
Walder projects Spencer Rattler as New York’s 2026 Week 1 starter, suggesting the Jets rumored trade for Saints’ 1,586-yard passer is as a result of financial flexibility and upside.
Rattler, a former fifth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, is entering his third professional season. At 25 years old, he remains relatively early in his development curve and recent performances have shown that he has a very high ceiling..
Unlike pursuing a high-profile veteran, the New York Jets strategy would likely cost significantly less draft capital and cap space.
With Fields failing to deliver consistency, Jets head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey may prioritize a quarterback who offers both mobility and manageable contract terms.
Breaking Down Spencer Rattler’s 1,586-Yard Season
The reason the Jets predicted trade for Saint’s Spencer Rattler is because of the quarterback’s statistical production last season.
In limited action, Rattler posted:
- 1,586 passing yards
- 67.7% completion percentage
- 8 touchdown passes
- 5 interceptions
- 167 rushing yards
While not eye-popping, those numbers shows efficiency and dual-threat capability. His mobility provides a complementary dimension that fits modern offensive schemes.
For a New York Jets offense that struggled to find rhythm under Fields, the trade presents a quarterback who can extend plays and operate effectively in quick-read systems.
Why the Saints Could Move On From Rattler
The Jets predicted trade for Saints’ 1,586-yard passer becomes more realistic when examining New Orleans’ quarterback depth chart.
The Saints selected Tyler Shough in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, which showed a long-term investment at the position. With Shough emerging and the franchise reshaping its offensive identity, Rattler becomes a logical trade candidate.
Because Rattler remains on his rookie contract for two more seasons, the move would offer roster flexibility. If he develops into a full-time starter, New York gains stability, and if not, the financial risk remains minimal.
Is Spencer Rattler the Right Replacement for Justin Fields?
Rattler has yet to prove he can sustain success over a full season as a starter. His sample size remains limited, and his decision-making under pressure has occasionally been inconsistent.
However, compared to more expensive trade targets, Rattler offers upside at a fraction of the cost.
For a Jets franchise seeking a reset after Fields’ uneven tenure, if the New York Jets move for Rattler, it could represent a calculated gamble rather than a headline splash.
What This Means for the New York Jets’ 2026 Outlook
If the Jets rumored trade for Saints’ 1,586-yard passer materializes, it would signal a strategic shift toward developmental upside rather than established star power.
With the 2026 NFL Draft lacking a clear franchise quarterback prospect at their projected draft position, the trade market becomes increasingly attractive.
Whether Spencer Rattler ultimately becomes the answer remains uncertain. But as predictions circulate, the Jets’ move for Saints’ 1,586-yard passer may be one to watch closely this offseason.
