NFL Trade Rumors: Joe Burrow to Jets as Bengals land Fernando Mendoza
A wild NFL trade rumor suggests the Bengals could acquire Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, potentially using Joe Burrow to secure five first-round picks from the Jets. While fans dismiss the idea, Mendoza's potential as a top prospect and the Bengals' defensive needs are explored. Burrow's massive contract complicates any such hypothetical move.
(Image via Getty: Joe Burrow and Fernando Mendoza)
On December 30, MLFootball shared a thought-provoking NFL trade rumor on X. They wrote, “THIS COULD BE INTERESTING…The Cincinnati #Bengals could end up with Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza as their franchise quarterback.
The New York #Jets have five first-round picks in the next 2 years. If Cincy & NY were to make a trade, Cincy would be able to rebuild.”Dismissing this rumor, a user quickly replied, “Why would cinci rebuild? Burrow is great they need to build around him. Also, don’t let Mendoza go to the jets it will ruin his career.” Another said, “Wherever Mendoza goes I’ll not be a fan of that team.” An ardent Joe Burrow fan commented, “I wouldn’t trade burrow for 10 Mendoza’s.”
But what if they did? And what if it comes true? Let’s dive in to find out. All speculation, though.
And some prediction.
New York Jets received five first round picks from Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams trades
Micah Warren of Heavy Sports reported that the most obvious choice for Burrow would be the Jets, because they have five first-round picks this year, two first-round picks [2026, 2027] that they acquired in the cornerback Sauce Gardner Trade with the Indianapolis Colts in November, and another first-round pick [2026] from the defensive tackle Quinnen Williams trade with the Dallas Cowboys in November.
And another second-round pick [2026] from the Williams trade.
How is Fernando Mendoza suitable for Cincinnati Bengals?
Fernando recently won the Heisman Trophy and is a top quarterback prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft. He is projected as an early first-round pick and could even go No. 1 overall.The 22-year-old Indiana Hoosiers [college football] quarterback is known for staying calm under pressure and showing strong leadership in the huddle. He quickly reads defenses, makes good decisions, and has strong accuracy in the short to intermediate passing game.However, Nick Merriam of Sports Illustrated reportedly disagrees with MLFootball’s speculation and suggests the New York Jets could trade for a prototypical 6-foot-5, 225-pound pocket passer like Fernando Mendoza. Head coach Aaron Glenn may see similarities between Mendoza and Jared Goff’s playing styles.
Cincinnati Bengals reportedly needs help with defense
Ayrton Ostly of USA TODAY recently reported the 2026 Mock Draft Roundup, where experts predict NFL team picks.
Pro Football Focus says Cincinnati needs edge David Bailey of Texas Tech. CBS Sports lists edge Rueben Bain Jr. of Miami [FL] for the Bengals. A to Z Sports reports Cincinnati needs defensive tackle Caleb Banks of Florida. Bleacher Nation states the Bengals need offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa of Miami [FL].