Russell Wilson Might Back Up Geno Smith in New York, and Yes, It's the Weird Timeline We're Living In

Remember when Geno Smith held a clipboard behind Russell Wilson in Seattle for three years? Well, flip the script. Multiple reports Tuesday said the New York Jets brought Wilson in for a free agent visit on Monday, potentially setting up one of the NFL's strangest reunion tours. The same Jets who traded for Smith last month to be their franchise quarterback.

Here's the wild part: According to The Athletic, Smith actually approved the visit and even mentioned to Jets GM Darren Mousey that he enjoyed working with Wilson back in Seattle. So this isn't some random audition. This is two guys who know each other, one of them saying "yeah, bring him in."

The Jets Are Still Looking to Fill the Backup Spot

The Jets have been hunting for a backup quarterback since trading for Smith in March. They had conversations with Wilson before the draft and scheduled this visit afterward to let the team focus on their draft process. They also grabbed Cade Klubnik of Clemson in the fourth round, and they've got Brady Cook (who started four games last season) and Bailey Zappe on the roster. But apparently, none of that is enough. They still want another veteran backup.

ESPN reported that nothing is imminent with Wilson and the Jets are still going through their process. With the draft now done, teams are ramping up free agent signings this week as they dial in their final roster needs. The timing matters too: signings happening now don't count toward the compensatory draft pick formula for 2027.

Wilson Still Wants to Play

The visit proves Wilson isn't done yet, even after a rough 2025. He got benched by the New York Giants after just three games with an 0-3 start, dropped to third-team status behind Jameis Winston, and eventually got cut loose when the Giants signed Brandon Allen as their third QB. That freed him up as an unrestricted free agent in March.

But Wilson has been saying all along that he's got more football left in him. "I still want to keep playing football," he said back in November. "I know what I'm capable of. I know how great I am. I know what I've done."

This guy has always thought long term. In 2019, after turning 31, he talked about wanting to play until 45. Tom Brady eventually proved it's possible, starting a game at 45. Wilson turns 38 in November, and he's not ready to hang it up.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.