Jets' Russell Wilson dream may be ruined by most unlikely source

The New York Jets still don't have a veteran backup quarterback lined up for the 2026 season, meaning that fourth-round rookie Cade Klubnik would likely be in line for extended snaps if something were to happen to Geno Smith. As such, greybeards like Russell Wilson have earned some extra attention.

Wilson, who has played for the Denver Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New York Giants in the last three years and lost his starting gig after just a handful of games in 2025, may be considering one last ride in the pros. However, if the Jets QB2 gig is unappealing, Wilson already has a backup plan lined up.

According to The Athletic, Wilson is in discussions with CBS for a role on "The NFL Today" pregame show after Matt Ryan bolted to join the Atlanta Falcons' front office. Such a move would end his pro career and give the Jets one less experienced backup quarterback to choose from.

Jets may lose Russell Wilson to TV after latest CBS rumors

Smith has reportedly vouched for Wilson, whom he backed up for multiple years with the Seattle Seahawks before the ill-fated trade to Denver, as his backup. Not only do the pair have familiarity, but Wilson is still the most productive player on a veteran market that is quickly getting alarmingly thin.

Wilson helped drag the Steelers to the playoffs just a year ago, and his 450-yard game in Week 2 last year shows that Seattle Russ is still in there despite how infrequently he comes out. A coaching staff that could be fired amid another poor season may not be willing to let Klubnik take the reins if Smith is incapable of doing so.

The veteran market features 2025 holdover and constant injury risk Tyrod Taylor, another veteran on the verge of retirement in Jimmy Garoppolo, and someone who is not an upgrade at all in Cooper Rush. Wilson shines in comparison to them.

Trading for Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis may have some appeal, but he is yet another developmental player, and the Jets need someone who can be trusted to operate a very complex Frank Reich offense if Smith is unable to go.

The Jets had better hope that CBS isn't backing up the Brinks truck to make sure they get Wilson in the fold.

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