Russell Wilson, Giants
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New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson posing for a photo with Philadelphia Eagles QB Jalen Hurts.
The New York Jets could help their next free agent save on moving costs.
ESPN’s Rich Cimini mentioned New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson as a possible option to consider in free agency. Wilson, 37, will turn 38 during the 2026 season.
The 10-time Pro Bowl QB spent this past year with the Giants. He appeared in six games and made three starts. With those opportunities, Wilson completed 58% of his passes, threw for 831 passing yards, and had three passing touchdowns to two interceptions.
A Proven Arm to Fill the QB2 Void
The green and white are searching for a backup quarterback. Perhaps there is a world where they could bring in a competent person who could compete with Geno Smith for the QB1 role over the spring and summer.
Wilson is one of the most accomplished quarterbacks over his 14-year career. He has won a Super Bowl, is a former second-team All-Pro, Rookie of the Year, 10-time Pro Bowler, has led the league in passer rating (2015), has led the league in passing touchdowns (2017), and was named Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year.
He entered the league as the No. 75 overall pick in the third round of the 2012 NFL draft.
In his storied career, Wilson has thrown for 46,966 passing yards, has completed 64.6% of his passes, and has a 353 touchdown to 114 interception ratio.
Throughout his tenure in the NFL, Wilson has primarily been a starting quarterback. In 13 of the last 14 years, he has made at least 11 starts, with last year being the lone exception.
He was replaced in the starting lineup by first-round draft choice Jaxson Dart after an 0-3 start to the 2025 season.
The Real Question the Jets Have to Answer at the QB Position
What are the Jets looking for in a No. 2 QB? Are they trying to find the most accomplished passer who is available and shove that individual in a room with Smith? Whoever is the best will emerge?
Are they just trying to find a competent quarterback who is comfortable being the backup with no questions asked? Then perhaps that role would be better suited for a guy like Tyrod Taylor. He hasn’t been a full-time starter since 2017.
There is also a third option to consider. The Jets could take a swing at a young QB with upside. This individual wouldn’t have to be the most proven option in the world.
However, he could be a dart throw. Someone who could develop behind the scenes. If Smith were to get hurt or get benched, this person could fill in as the new QB1. The Jets might have to find that person on the trade market for a late-round pick.
This 2027 season is a weird year for the Jets. They aren’t going all in to compete for the Super Bowl based on their moves. However, they aren’t completely tanking and trying to lose games either.
It’s an identity crisis season. Head coach Aaron Glenn needs to win as many games as possible. General manager Darren Mougey is keeping an eye on the future, rightfully so.