The New York Jets announced that undrafted rookie quarterback Brady Cook will be the starter for Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville. The decision is due to the injuries of Tyrod Taylor, due to a groin problem, and Justin Fields, due to knee pain, who were excluded from the match. Cook, 24 and a former University of Missouri player, will make his first NFL start after appearing last week in a loss to the Miami Dolphins.
The lineup represents a historic milestone for the franchise, as it is the first time in 50 years that an undrafted rookie has started at quarterback for the Jets. The team, with a record of 3 wins and 10 losses, is trying to end a streak of six seasons with at least 10 setbacks. Adrian Martinez, also from the pre-season squad, will serve as a reserve.
Cook entered the game against Dolphins following Taylor’s injury and completed 14 of 30 passes for 163 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions. Apesar of the uneven performance, coach Aaron Glenn praised the rookie’s competitiveness.
Cook’s path to the NFL
Brady Cook signed with the Jets as an undrafted free agent in May 2025 after three years as a starter with Missouri. During his college career, he accumulated more than 9,000 air yards and 50 touchdowns, standing out for his mobility, with more than 1,000 yards rushing.
In 2023, as a junior, Cook completed 66.1% of his passes for 3,317 yards, 21 touchdowns and six interceptions, along with 319 rushing yards and eight scores. Lesões’ wrist and ankle affected his final season, but he led Missouri to notable victories, including a loss to Kansas State.
Jets coaches noted his decision-making ability and confidence during training camp, where he passed out Martinez for a spot on the practice squad. In the preseason finale, Cook and Martinez split quarterback plays.
Jets current situation at quarterback
The Jets face instability at the quarterback position all season. Justin Fields, signed for two years and $40 million in March, started but was sent down after 10 games and is now dealing with a knee injury.
Tyrod Taylor, 36, came in as a substitute and played just nine quarters before suffering a groin injury in the second series against Dolphins. Taylor, known for his injury propensity, was questionable upon returning in the final game.
- Cook received full training with the first team this week, preparing for the challenge.
- Martinez, added to the practice squad Wednesday, brings experience from previous training camp and time with the 49ers.
- The absence of Fields and Taylor forces an unlikely pairing, similar to the preseason.
Glenn maintained his faith in Cook, saying the rookie will be a good player in the league. The coach highlighted for the moment the dedicated study of the quarterback.
Cook’s performance in the recent debut
In the game against Dolphins, Cook faced immediate pressure and was picked off six times. Seus passes netted 163 yards, but two interceptions contributed to the 34-10 loss. Jets’ Recebedores dropped five balls, including one that could have been a touchdown.
Despite the mistakes, Cook showed poise in the meeting, which was praised by his teammates. Ele completed 46.7% of his throws, lower than his college average but adaptable for a rookie under fire.
The play served as a test, with Cook rushing for additional yards. Ele expects butterflies in his stomach, but says his concentration disappears after the first shot. According to him, Nervos are part of this sport.
Receivers like freshman Mason Taylor, with 44 receptions this season, sat out Sunday with an injury, complicating the offense.
Preparation for the match against Jaguars
The Jaguars, leaders of the AFC South with 9 wins and 4 losses, are favored with 13.5 points. This is the biggest favoritism for Jacksonville since 2007, when they beat the Raiders by a similar margin.
The Jaguars defense ranks seventh in DVOA against the pass, allowing 227.5 yards per game, 22nd worst in the league. Cook will face a rigorous test, but with mobility he can exploit the gaps.
- The Jets are trying to avoid a 15th consecutive season without the playoffs.
- The Jaguars are coming off a 36-19 win over the Colts.
- Cook studied the offensive scheme intensely, according to Glenn.
The game will take place on Sunday, 1 p.m., Jacksonville local time. Para Cook, it’s a dream come true, after redshirting in Missouri and quickly growing up.
Jets rare history with newcomers
Since 1975, when JJ Jones replaced Joe Namath for one game, the Jets have not started an undrafted rookie. Jones, the franchise’s first black quarterback, played a prominent role in the season finale and moved on to the CFL.
Cook will be the 55th quarterback to start for New York in history. Sua’s signing came after the draft, impressing with his work ethic. Ele is the seventh rookie to start in the NFL in 2025, the second not chosen in the draft.
The Jets season reflects turmoil, with trades like Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner generating picks for 2026. Cook could influence future valuations.
Expectations and internal trust
Glenn expressed full confidence in Cook early on, anticipating recurring opportunities. The rookie, from St. Louis, sees the game as a culmination of effort, with normal nerves dissipating on the field.
Teammates noticed his leadership in the locker room. Recebedores deleted last week’s immediate fixes. The goal is simple execution against a strong defense.
Cook plans to use his legs to extend plays, echoing the college style. The game can define perceptions about your potential in the league.
