Jets Scramble for QB Backup as Wilson Eyes TV Gig

On May 1st, the New York Jets are scrambling for a solid backup quarterback behind Geno

Smith this off-season.

Their current options like Brady Cook and Bailey Zappy just aren't cutting it, and

Rookie Kade Klubnik needs time to develop.

Last week, they hosted veteran Russell Wilson, the 37-year-old former Super Bowl champ,

as a potential number two guy.

But now there's a big roadblock.

Wilson is deep in talks for a television gig, with the NFL today pre-game show on CBS

looking like the frontrunner after some long discussions.

His past work with the network makes it a natural fit, and sources say it's pulling him away

from football.

Fans are buzzing because Wilson brings serious credentials, 130 career wins, 10 pro bowls,

nearly 47,000 passing yards, and over 350 touchdowns.

Plus, he knows Smith from their Seattle days, signing him would have been a dream for depth,

but TV means no more hits, or grueling practices.

Luckily, the Jets have backups in mind.

Free agents like Ty Rott Taylor, who knows the team from recent years, Cooper Rush with

16 starts, or Jimmy Garoppolo with his 43 wins, and Super Bowl experience could step up.

Trades for guys like Joe Milton III from Dallas or even Anthony Richardson from Indy are

on the table too.

Over to the wise though, the league moves fast, and the Jets can't dwell.

General manager Darren Moogie needs to lock in a plan quick so they're set for 2026 without

weak spots at quarterback.