Jets Rumors: Case Keenum a Candidate If NY Can't Sign Kirk Cousins to Contract

The New York Jets hope Kirk Cousins will be the team's next quarterback, but former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Case Keenum reportedly has emerged as a potential fallback option, according to Kimberly Jones of NFL Network (via Marc Sessler). 

Jones also noted the team could re-sign Josh McCown, who started 13 games for the Jets last season.

McCown did produce a 94.5 quarterback rating in 2017, but the 38-year-old was only 5-8 as a starter.

Meanwhile, Keenum, 30, is coming off the best year of his career, taking over for the Vikings once Sam Bradford went down with an injury. He led the team to an 11-3 record and an appearance in the NFC Championship Game, throwing 22 touchdowns with only seven interceptions in this stretch.

Despite his success, Minnesota allowed him to test the waters in free agency while choosing not to stick him with the franchise tag.

According to Ben Volin of the Boston Globe, Keenum is reportedly seeking $16 million-$18 million per year with his next deal.

This is likely cheaper than it would cost to bring in Cousins, who is hoping for a three-year fully guaranteed contract, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. With several teams, like the Vikings, Broncos and Cardinals, bidding for his services, it could lead to a massive payday.

Still, the Jets remain in play for the former Redskins quarterback, who has thrown for over 4,000 yards in each of the past three seasons, with 81 total touchdowns in this stretch.

He would likely make the biggest impact for New York's offense, although the team is wisely considering contingency options in case Cousins goes elsewhere.