New Russell Wilson Rumors on Potential Landing Spot as Backup QB After NFL Draft

The New York Jets have emerged as a possibility for free agent quarterback Russell Wilson, per Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic, who made clear that the opportunity would be a backup role to starter Geno Smith.

The 37-year-old Wilson has made 10 Pro Bowls over his 14 NFL seasons. Last year, he began the season as the New York Giants' starting quarterback before rookie Jaxson Dart took over after three weeks.

Wilson did have one great game in 2025, throwing for 450 yards and three touchdowns in a 40-37 overtime loss to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 2. Granted, Dallas finished with the league's worst scoring defense, but Wilson still lit up the secondary with fantastic deep balls.

However, he struggled mightily in Weeks 1 and 3 against the Washington Commanders (21-6 loss) and the Kansas City Chiefs (22-9 defeat). He combined to complete 35-of-67 passes (52.2 percent) for 328 yards (4.75 yards per attempt) and no touchdowns (two interceptions).

The latter game against Kansas City led to the Giants' 0-3 start and cemented Dart as QB1 moving forward. Wilson eventually fell to QB3 as Jameis Winston became the team's backup later in the year and even started a pair of games for Dart when the then-rookie entered the NFL's concussion protocol.

Wilson's last extended time as a starter occurred in 2024, when he helped guide the Pittsburgh Steelers to the playoffs. In 11 games, Wilson completed 63.7 percent of his passes for 16 touchdowns and five interceptions. He threw for 2,482 yards (7.4 yards per attempt).

As for the Jets connection, Wilson was the starter for the Seattle Seahawks from 2012-2021. Smith was Wilson's backup for his final three years in Seattle before taking over as the starter in 2022 after Wilson was traded to the Denver Broncos.

Smith seems keen on Wilson coming to the Jets, and the two have a good relationship. SNY's Connor Hughes provided more information.

We'll see if anything comes to fruition, but the Jets are a team to watch right now for Wilson.