i like my shorts a little loose in the thigh, so i think the second pair of jeans would work. if these are bound for the trash/salvation army, i'd go nuts with a pair of scissors on all three. try making bermudas and continue to cut a little shorter until you get a pair you like.
I agree w/ squish. If you don't like them as they are now, just give it a shot. As an alternative, I occasionally cut mine just a couple inches above the ankle, which I think is cute w/ flip flops or pumas.