I'm planning a run from Europe to NY with a direct turnaround.

Option 1: 3 hours layover at EWR

Option 2: arrival to JFK, 5 hours layover and leaving from EWR

I suppose option 2 shouldn't be a problem, as I could state I'm meeting somebody in the city. What about option 1? I'm not too keen for an interview with the US boarder protection...