Andrew Buller-Russ
The New York Jets know who their starting quarterback will be in 2026. Yet, like they experienced last season, just because a starter is in place, it doesn’t mean he’ll retain that QB1 role all year long.
After all, Geno Smith is 35 years old, and he’s coming off a season where he led the NFL with 17 interceptions. The outcome isn’t guaranteed to be better than last year, when the Jets finished tied with Smith’s former team for the worst record in football at 3-14.
For now, the Jets have Smith as the starter, fourth-round Clemson rookie Cade Klubnik as the developmental backup, and potential long-term solution. Brady Cook, an undrafted rookie free agent signee from 2025, is the third QB in New York. Bailey Zappe, a 27-year-old former fourth-round pick, is the other QB on the roster, but there’s no guarantee that Cook and/or Zappe will still have a roster spot by the time camp breaks.
Plus, after recently offering a contract to Russell Wilson, it’s clear that the Jets are still looking to add depth to their quarterback room. While Wilson is mulling that contract offer with the Jets, along with other career opportunities, the Jets may have to turn elsewhere. So, which quarterbacks should the Jets consider to back up and/or push Smith?
Russell Wilson
The obvious connection, Wilson has already visited the Jets, and he likely still has a place to live in New York after playing for the Giants last season. Plus, it’s long been rumored that he and his wife Ciara prefer the New York area. If Wilson wants to keep playing football, it really shouldn’t matter how much the Jets are willing to offer. Plus, there’s a good chance he’ll get to play at some point, as it’s not like the Jets are expected to be competitive. The question is, do the Jets want someone with more long-term upside?
Jimmy Garoppolo
Also rumored to be considering retirement after spending the past two seasons as Matthew Stafford‘s backup, Garoppolo turns 35 in November. Yet, if he’s still looking to cash some checks without too much risk, why not sign on with the Jets and earn another couple of million dollars? The two-time Super Bowl winner’s 12 years of experience would certainly be of value to the younger arms in the room, including the rookie Klubnik.
Josh Dobbs
While Dobbs doesn’t have any long-term starting potential, he’s proven that he’s plenty capable of playing, even on short notice. The 31-year-old is as bright as they come, but he’s also a bit light on experience, with only 15 NFL starts to his name. He only appeared in four games with the Patriots last season, but Dobbs has shown he can move the chains with his legs and his arm.
Anthony Richardson
The Jets probably don’t want to give up any draft compensation, knowing that this isn’t a team that’s ready to compete right away. However, with Aaron Glenn clearly on the hot seat after a three-win season, they could feel a stronger sense of urgency in New York. In that case, why not take a chance on a 23-year-old QB with superstar potential? Richardson could be everything the Jets are looking for; he just needs more development.
Will Levis
Another trade candidate since the Titans have Cam Ward, former second-round pick Will Levis is likely itching to play after missing all of last year with a shoulder injury. Now healthy, the soon-to-be 27-year-old is a prime buy-low candidate. Boasting a strong arm, Levis can make all the throws, which should play well in the high winds at MetLife Stadium.
Related: 2026 NFL QB Rankings
