The New York Jets have reason to keep a close eye on the 2027 quarterback class. General manager Darren Mougey may already be doing some early homework.

He was spotted Saturday in Manhattan, Kansas, speaking with Oklahoma State Cowboys offensive coordinator Sean Brophy before the latter's matchup against the Kansas State Wildcats. The conversation doesn't establish that the Jets have targeted Oklahoma State quarterback Drew Mestemaker, but it puts Mougey in contact with someone who works with one of the class's most intriguing passers.

Mestemaker has emerged as a leading quarterback prospect after transferring from North Texas. Entering Saturday, the redshirt sophomore had completed 65.5% of his passes for 2,649 yards, 25 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He was averaging 9.4 yards per attempt, while adding 166 rushing yards and two scores on the ground.

Ball security remains a concern. He has only thrown seven interceptions, but he has a tendency to put the ball in harm's way. Still, it's easy to see why there may be interest. He's a great talent and should rank among the next draft class's top quarterback prospects come April.

The Jets have reason to study quarterback, and they may be in prime position to take one once the 2027 NFL Draft arrives. Entering their Week 9 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, they hold the fourth overall pick (via the Indianapolis Colts), the sixth pick, and the 10th pick (via the Dallas Cowboys).

Those picks give Mougey flexibility, whether the plan is to use one on a quarterback or package assets to move up the board. Saturday's conversation is only a small clue in a process that will unfold over several months. Still, with the Jets searching for a long-term answer at quarterback, Mestemaker is worth keeping on the radar.