After a year of searching for a new starting quarterback, the New York Jets had to find another starter this offseason. This time, they agreed to trade for Geno Smith, which cost New York only a sixth-round selection (they also received a seventh-round selection from Las Vegas).
Although the Jets were likely thrilled to trade for the former Pro Bowl QB at such a low rate, he reportedly was not New York's first choice. He wasn't even the first QB Jets general manager Darren Maugy tried to trade for this offseason.
According to ESPN's Jets insider Rich Cimini, New York previously attempted to trade for QB Tanner McKee from the Eagles. However, when Philadelphia informed them they were asking for a second-round pick in exchange for the previous sixth-round selection, the Jets hung up the phone.
Rumors have indicated that several teams have expressed interest in McKee in the past. However, the Eagles have always set a high price for a 25-year-old QB with only 88 career pass attempts.
McKee is in the final year of his rookie contract, so teams believe he could be available via trade. Still, he didn't expect Philadelphia to ask for so much from a player with only two NFL starts to his name.
Thus, it was likely an easy decision for the Jets to look elsewhere, allowing them to retain their two prized second-round selections (Nos. 33 and 44). Plus, maybe now the Jets could turn around and use one of them on another potential future franchise QB.
RELATED: The New York Jets are closely evaluating several top QB prospects
