3 Backup Quarterback Options the Jets Could Add Right Now

The New York Jets used Justin Fields and Tyrod Taylor as their main quarterbacks last season. Brady Cook also saw time under center after the season was practically over. And they were all disastrous, though they weren't set up for much success in the first place.

As a result, the Jets opted to trade Fields to the Kansas City Chiefs this offseason. Taylor entered free agency and hasn't been signed at the time of this writing on Wednesday.

The Jets dove into the trade market to find their new quarterback going forward, as they swung a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders to acquire Geno Smith. Head coach Aaron Glenn is seemingly ready to commit to Smith as the starter going forward, but the Jets still need a backup.

Who could the Jets add as a backup right now, ahead of the NFL draft?

New Orleans Saints QB Spencer Rattler

Oct 26, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler (2) warms up before a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images | Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

There aren't many trade candidate quarterbacks around the league right now, but New Orleans Saints backup quarterback Spencer Rattler is an option, assuming the Saints are willing to move him. Rattler lost the starting job to Tyler Shough last season, and it doesn't seem like he'll earn it back. However, he could be a valuable backup on a team like the Jets, who don't have a franchise quarterback on the roster unless Smith puts together a huge season.

New York Jets QB Tyrod Taylor

Nov 30, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets quarterback Tyrod Taylor (2) drops back to pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images | Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

There's been some buzz that the Jets could turn back to Taylor, who was very beloved in the locker room, to work as the backup quarterback again. Taylor is a very respected veteran with the ability to lead without needing to be on the field. He's been a valuable piece for the Jets ever since he landed with New York. Re-signing him seems like the most likely outcome at this point in time.

New York Giants QB Russell Wilson

Jan 4, 2026; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson (3) waves to fans after the game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

If the Jets want to add a veteran leader to be the backup, but they're not willing to go with Taylor again, former New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson is the next best option. Wilson is one of the better leaders and people in the league at this point. He still has some juice left in his arm despite nearing the end of his career. Adding him to the Jets roster might be the best option of the three on this list.