Jets continue evaluating backup QB options after Russell Wilson’s TV move

New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn said Tuesday the team will keep evaluating multiple quarterback options for the upcoming season after Russell Wilson chose a future television role over a potential backup spot in New York. Glenn said the staff’s approach to the position remains unchanged and offered congratulations to Wilson on his broadcasting opportunity. Team officials added that internal assessments during Organized Team Activities (OTAs) will help shape next steps at the position.

The Jets plan to keep surveying external candidates for the No. 2 job while monitoring in-house depth through OTAs. Glenn reiterated that the club has been looking at a number of quarterbacks and that Wilson’s decision does not alter that process. The team intends to gather more information on its current options during offseason work before deciding whether to seek a more experienced addition.

New York’s timeline points to internal evaluations first and a possible veteran check later in the offseason. That sequence allows the staff to see what it has in the building now, maintain roster flexibility and revisit the market if needed after spring work concludes.

Quarterback room under review

Behind starter Geno Smith, the current depth chart includes Brady Cook, Bailey Zappe and fourth-round pick Cade Klubnik. Team officials have indicated they want to see more of Klubnik during OTAs before making any other moves for a more experienced quarterback.

That approach could give the rookie a clearer path to the primary backup role if he performs well in offseason work, while also preserving the option to pursue a veteran later in the summer. Internal evaluation now also helps the staff decide how to allocate preseason reps and build the meeting-room and on-field chemistry a reliable No. 2 typically provides.

Klubnik’s OTAs audition

OTAs offer extended reps and a chance for young players to absorb the playbook and adjust to pro practice tempo. Coaches will weigh command of the huddle and consistency in routine situations as they assess whether Klubnik can open training camp as the favorite for the backup job.

The Jets’ approach signals a preference to let the depth chart take shape organically during spring work before tapping the veteran market. That patience preserves roster flexibility while keeping the door open for experienced options if needed.

Wilson’s broadcasting commitment

Wilson is set to begin a broadcasting role in the 2026 season, removing him from the pool of immediate options for New York. His decision narrows the external market slightly but does not change the Jets’ plan to evaluate internal options first and revisit the landscape after OTAs.

Glenn congratulated Wilson on the opportunity and emphasized that New York’s evaluation remains on track. The club will continue to balance the upside of developing a younger backup with the security that a more seasoned option can offer.

Market check and next steps

The Jets are expected to monitor Klubnik’s progress and the availability of experienced quarterbacks through training camp before finalizing the depth chart. The team plans to reassess the market once OTAs conclude and as veteran movement typically picks up ahead of the preseason.

New York’s backup plan will crystallize as the spring program advances. The staff will keep internal evaluations front and center now and reengage on veteran possibilities later in the offseason if performance or availability shifts the calculus.