ESPN’s Rich Cimini called Brissett a “name to watch” for the Jets, noting Reich’s history of working with taller pocket-passers and that Brissett fits that profile. Cimini also pointed out that Brissett is under contract with Arizona, meaning any move would likely require a trade rather than a blind free-agent signing.
Insider context from Connor Hughes of SNY underscores Reich’s early task: determine a quarterback for 2026, with Justin Fields unlikely to return and Tyrod Taylor a free agent. Brissett is highlighted as a potential option, a quarterback Reich already coordinated for in 2019, when Brissett started 10 games across two seasons with Reich and posted solid numbers.
Brissett, 33, is under a two-year, roughly $12.5 million deal with $8 million guaranteed, and there is an out that could leave the Cardinals with only about $1.75 million in dead cap if they cut him this offseason. Given the Cardinals’ coaching change, a trade to reunite Reich and Brissett could be more likely than a release.
In Reich’s system, Brissett would bring a proven floor and familiarity, even if he isn’t viewed as a headlining upgrade. Brissett’s 2019 campaign in Reich’s offense saw 2,942 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, six interceptions, and a 60.9% completion rate during his full-time starting stint.
The Cardinals’ coaching upheaval could open the door for a Brissett deal, allowing Reich to shape the Jets’ QB landscape with a player he’s trusted before. While the move wouldn’t generate headlines, it could provide the stability and efficiency Reich aims to bring to a Jets offense that finished 2025 well below expectations.
