Brady Cook Set for First NFL Start as Injuries Plague Jets Quarterback Room

The New York Jets will start rookie quarterback Brady Cook against the Jacksonville Jaguars this Sunday. This will be Cook’s first career NFL start. The move comes due to injuries sidelining both starter Tyrod Taylor and backup Justin Fields.

New York Jets quarterback Brady Cook (4) looks to pass against the Miami Dolphins during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

The situation returns the Jets to their preseason quarterback depth. Cook will start with recent practice squad addition Adrian Martinez backing him up. The team confirmed the decision after a week of limited practice options.

From Preseason Audition to Regular Season Spotlight

Cook, an undrafted free agent from Missouri, was thrust into action last week. He replaced an injured Tyrod Taylor during a loss to the Miami Dolphins. This week, he received all the first-team practice repetitions.

Jets coach Aaron Glenn expressed strong confidence in the rookie. Glenn stated Cook has had the crucial practice time to communicate with starters. According to the Associated Press, this preparation should help compared to last week’s emergency appearance.

The Jets signed Cook after the 2025 NFL Draft. He beat out Adrian Martinez for a practice squad spot in the preseason. His athleticism and potential were key factors in that decision.

Cook acknowledges feeling nerves but also excitement. He says the focus on the game itself makes the nerves disappear. The opportunity represents the culmination of his football journey.

Jets’ Season-Long Quarterback Conundrum Reaches New Level

The Jets’ quarterback position has been unstable all season. The team initially signed Justin Fields to a large contract as a long-term solution. He was benched after nine starts due to offensive struggles.

Veteran Tyrod Taylor took over but managed only one win in four starts. Taylor also has a history of dealing with various injuries throughout his career. This latest groin injury continues that pattern.

The injuries extend beyond the quarterback position. Tight end Mason Taylor, cornerback Azareye’h Thomas, and linebacker Kiko Mauigoa are also ruled out. This compounds the challenge for a team already fighting for consistency.

Cook becomes the 55th quarterback to start for the franchise. He is the first undrafted rookie to start for the Jets since J.J. Jones in 1975. His performance will be closely watched by a fanbase eager for stability.

Brady Cook now faces the daunting task of leading an injury-riddled Jets offense against a tough Jacksonville defense. His debut start could provide a glimpse into whether the rookie offers a unexpected spark for the struggling team.

Info at your fingertips

Who is Brady Cook?

Brady Cook is an undrafted rookie quarterback from the University of Missouri. The New York Jets signed him after the 2025 NFL Draft. This Sunday will mark his first career NFL start.

Why is Brady Cook starting for the Jets?

Cook is starting because both primary quarterbacks are injured. Starter Tyrod Taylor has a groin injury. Backup Justin Fields is dealing with knee soreness.

How did Brady Cook perform last week?

Cook entered last week’s game against Miami after Taylor’s injury. He played with the Jets already trailing significantly. This week’s full practice with starters should aid his preparation.

What other Jets players are out this week?

In addition to the quarterbacks, several key players are injured. Tight end Mason Taylor, cornerback Azareye’h Thomas, and linebacker Kiko Mauigoa will not play against Jacksonville.

How have the Jets’ quarterbacks performed this season?

The Jets’ passing offense has struggled all year. Justin Fields was benched after nine starts. Tyrod Taylor won only one of his four starts before his injury.