The New York Jets have a bit of a problem following the 2026 NFL Draft. With Geno Smith the starter at quarterback and Cade Klubnik the developmental rookie, the Jets are seeking another veteran as a backup option.
Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey have their sights set on Russell Wilson, the former Seattle Seahawks, Denver Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers and, most recently, New York Giants QB.
However, they've hit a snag due to Wilson receiving offers to join a TV Network as an analyst. And according to Ryan Dunleavy of The New York Post, Wilson is mulling the Jets and these TV Networks.
"It was great," Wilson said. "They offered me, and I'm trying to figure out what the next best thing is for me to do. I still know I can play ball at a high level, but I also have an opportunity to do TV (analysis), so we'll see what happens."
While the Jets' interest in Wilson is well-known at this point, why are the Jets interested at all, and hopeful that he will decide to join the Jets rather than a TV network?
Why Russell Wilson's decision is a big deal for Jets
The Jets need another backup quarterback. Smith is the starter, and Klubnik is the developmental option.
But they need a true backup just in case Smith gets hurt. They don't want to throw Klubnik into the starting lineup until he's ready, and to make sure such a scenario happens, they need a third QB.
Wilson is the best free agent QB available by a wide margin, with most of the current free agents either practice-squad guys at best or QBs mulling retirement.
MORE: Aaron Glenn believes Geno Smith can lead Jets to 'the promised land'
Only Cooper Rush is a possible decent backup option, and there's no guarantee they would be able to sign him if Wilson says no to the Jets.
So now, the Jets are in a mini-battle with TV networks, hoping that Wilson will make a favorable decision.
Wilson has a belief he can still play in the league and is viewing the Jets' offer seriously. But he's also considering retirement and a pivot to TV.
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