Russell Wilson to the Jets? Veteran QB drawing consideration as backup

Russell Wilson is hoping to continue playing during the 2026 NFL season. Could he find that opportunity with the New York Jets ? Wilson is "being considered" for a backup role with the Jets, ESPN's Rich Cimini reports .

The Jets hosted the 37-year-old quarterback on a visit to their facility on April 27, but "no contract is imminent" between the two parties. Wilson is a 14-year NFL veteran who spent the 2025 season with the New York Giants. He opened the season as the Giants' starting quarterback but was benched in favor of Jaxson Dart after posting an 0-3 record, finishing the season completing 58% of his passes for 831 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions.

Wilson has largely operated as a starter across his time with the Seattle Seahawks , Denver Broncos , Pittsburgh Steelers and Giants. The only time he failed to start a Week 1 game for his team was in 2024, when he missed the first six weeks of the Steelers' season while dealing with a calf injury. However, Wilson is being evaluated for the backup role with the Jets, who have committed to 35-year-old Geno Smith as their starter for 2026.

Cimini reports that Smith "advocated for Wilson when team officials solicited his input on potential backups," as the duo have a strong relationship from their two seasons together with the Seahawks in 2020 and 2021. Here's more to know about the Jets' quarterback situation as they evaluate Wilson for a potential role with the team. Jets QB depth chart The Jets currently have four quarterbacks on their 90-man roster.