4 backup quarterback options Jets could target after Russell Wilson news

The New York Jets need a backup quarterback. If Geno Smith goes down with an injury next season, the Jets would be turning towards fourth-round rookie Cade Klubnik, Bailey Zappe, or even worse, Brady Cook.

It seemed like New York was interested in adding veteran quarterback Russell Wilson. They hosted him on a free agent visit early last week, but recent reports indicate that he's deep in talks with CBS to join their show, The NFL Today.

If Wilson does end up calling it quits and taking his career in the direction of television, where else can the Jets turn to find an experienced backup quarterback?

4 veteran quarterbacks the Jets could sign to backup Geno Smith

1. Tyrod Taylor

The first option the Jets could turn to is their backup quarterback of the last few years, and that's Tyrod Taylor. Entering his 16th season in the NFL, Taylor commands the respect of any team he walks into.

Taylor was solid in four starts for the Jets last season. He completed roughly 60% of his passes, threw for 779 yards, and tossed five touchdowns to five interceptions. The only problem is that Taylor struggles to stay on the field.

The former Baltimore Ravens draft pick likely would've finished the season out as the Jets starter last season had he not gotten injured late in the season against the Miami Dolphins, and to take it even further, would've taken over for Justin Fields earlier had it not been for a nagging knee injury.

2. Cooper Rush

Another experienced option would be longtime Dallas Cowboys backup quarterback Cooper Rush. The eight-year veteran has 42 appearances in his career and is 9-7 as a starter.

His most recent stint with the Baltimore Ravens was not a good one. He started two games for the injured Lamar Jackson and tossed for 303 yards, no touchdowns, and four interceptions. Rush was eventually benched for Snoop Huntley.

Rush wouldn't be the most talented option for the Jets to add behind Smith, but he would certainly bring a level of stability that they don't currently have.

3. Spencer Rattler

After listing two free agent options, we'll turn to the veteran trade market. New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler may be expendable, thanks to the emergence of quarterback Tyler Shough and the signing of former Jets draft pick Zach Wilson.

Rattler has two years of NFL experience under his belt and 14 career starts. The South Carolina product has completed 62.7% of his passes for 2,903 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.

He likely wouldn't cost more than a 2027 Day 3 pick and could be a worthwhile investment in an experienced backup quarterback that the Jets don't have.

4. Will Levis

2023 second-round pick Will Levis may be the most intriguing option of the bunch. Similar to Rattler, he's young, has experience, and is likely on the trade block thanks to the Tennessee Titans' recent quarterback additions.

Levis has 21 career starts to his name and has completed 61% of his passes for 3,899 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions. Among the aforementioned options, he easily has the most upside.

Similar to Rattler, it likely wouldn't cost more than a future Day 3 draft pick. He's entering the final year of his rookie contract, so it would likely only be a one-year rental.

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