Jets GM begins scouting Justin Fields' replacement in 29-TD QB for 2026 draft as New York front office heads to Pennsylvania

The New York Jets have already set their sights on the 2026 NFL draft quarterback class. With Justin Fields on a two-year $40 million deal and the team struggling this season, the front office reportedly dispatched scouts to study top prospects.

The Indiana Hoosiers' Fernando Mendoza is gaining traction as the possible No. 1 pick. At 6-foot-5 and 225 pounds, he combines traditional pocket-passing size with accuracy and poise. Mendoza has recorded 29 touchdowns through nine games this season.

ESPN's draft and college football analyst, Jordan Reid, reported that Jets general manager Darren Mougey and senior football advisor Rick Spielman were in attendance for the Indiana-Penn State game on Saturday.

Jordan Reid

@Jordan_Reid

#Jets GM Darren Mougey and senior football advisor, Rick Spielman, are among a heavy contingent from team in attendance at the Indiana/Penn State game today. QB Fernando Mendoza is a notable name prospect in that match up.

New York, holding early 2026 first-round picks, ha two major options. These are to either acquire a franchise QB next year or continue to stockpile draft capital and retarget 2027. Fields’ struggles, both in production and consistency, have amplified the urgency.

He has thrown for 1,089 yards, completed about 64.1 % of his passes and has yet to throw an interception in seven games. Field's QBR is 37.9, ranking near the bottom among qualified signal-callers. On a game-by-game basis, he has produced flashes, including 244 yards and a touchdown versus the Bengals.

However, he has also had severe drops, notably a -10 net passing yards against the Broncos in Week 6 as he was sacked nine times.

Aaron Glenn keeps QB decision quiet, but Justin Fields remains the clear starter

The New York Jets quarterback situation has been the talk of the week. Aaron Glenn remains silent on who will start against the Cleveland Browns in Week 10. He addressed the media on Friday.

“We will have a quarterback," Glenn said. "We will have a quarterback. I don't worry about those things. Our guys know who's going to be the quarterback. I know who's going to be the quarterback. It's just not my responsibility to have to tell you that.”

Despite the coach's refusal to confirm it publicly, all signs point to Fields retaining the starting job. He is coming off his best game of the season in the win over Cincinnati.