5 backup quarterbacks Jets can add after Justin Fields trade

The New York Jets have officially decided to part ways with Justin Fields after just one season, trading the former first-round pick to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a sixth-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft. After a nightmare season in 2025, the Jets offloading Fields was a matter of when, not if.

The Jets need to completely overturn their quarterback room this offseason, and they are one-third of the way finished with that goal after bringing Geno Smith back to his old stomping grounds.

These five backups are still out there, and they could give Aaron Glenn some peace of mind behind Smith.

5 backup quarterbacks that make sense for the Jets

5. Tyrod Taylor, New York Jets

Taylor is a beloved figure in the Jets locker room, and he has proven to provide capable backup-level play when forced into action, but the combination of his penchant for getting banged up and the desire to wash out as many 2025 players as possible will be enough to force the grizzled vet out of town.

4. Andy Dalton, Carolina Panthers

After signing Kenny Pickett, Dalton may be on his way out of town. Dalton has some past experience with Frank Reich, and he's looked capable of making some big plays with his arm in Carolina despite a lack of surrounding talent. However, Dalton will be turning 39 years old in the 2026 season.

3. Carson Wentz, Minnesota Vikings

Wentz has been the most popular name linked to the Jets due to his connection with Frank Reich. While he is a walking injury risk, Wentz was able to win some games when J.J. McCarthy was inactive last season with the Minnesota Vikings, and the arm is still there despite his age.

2. Russell Wilson, New York Giants

Wilson appears to have run out of road as a starter in this league, but he is still good for a few games every year where prime Seattle Russ comes out to cook. The Jets can roll the dice and assume that some of those games could come on the other New York team.

1. Will Levis, Tennessee Titans

The Mitchell Trubisky signing will likely mean that Levis' time in Tennessee is numbered. If the Jets can get some assurance that his shoulder is healed, look for the strong-armed former top-40 pick to possibly get a chance to earn a long-term backup job. The medicals may determine if this becomes reality.