The New York Jets' training camp has already begun, but questions about their quarterback room remain. The Jets have confirmed that Geno Smith will be their starting quarterback ahead of the season, but concerns remain over the depth behind him. 

According to a report by NFL analyst Christopher Knox, the Jets could still explore three veteran quarterback options despite their recent draft additions. 

“Russell Wilson, Cooper Rush, and Jimmy Garoppolo headline the remaining free-agent QB pool,” Knox said. 

Among the available options, Russell Wilson brings the most experience. In fact, Wilson was offered a contract recently by the New York Jets. However, the QB is also hoping to snag a TV role on The NFL Today pregame show, The Athletic reported.

On the other hand, Rush could be a solid addition to the Jets' roster. He has eight years of experience and played 42 games, in which he had 16 starts. While Rush remains a reliable option, his age and limited ceiling make him a better backup choice.  

Then there is Garoppolo, who will turn 35 this November. He can also be considered as a backup option, but he is considering retirement after spending two seasons as Matthew Stafford's backup. 

Garoppolo’s experience can play a crucial role. With 12 years of experience and two Super Bowl rings, he can add value to the franchise. 

“The New York Jets appear to be playing for 2027, a year in which they'll hold three first-round draft picks. Therefore, adding a veteran quarterback to back up Geno Smith might not seem logical,” Knox said. 

Knox added that “the Jets have reportedly already offered a contract to Russell Wilson, indicating that they aren't happy with the idea of having Brady Cook, Bailey Zappe, and fourth-round rookie Cade Klubnik as their QB understudies.”

Cook and Zappe have a mere 13 starts between them, while Klubnik's rookie status means he needs to be developed further.

So, although their experience with Smith last season was not as good as they had expected, the Jets have retained Geno Smith as a starter for the time being. The 35-year-old veteran led the 2025 season with 17 interceptions.

There is a high chance that Klubnik might eventually take over the role of starting QB and become a potential long-term solution. Cook and Zappe's futures in the franchise, however, remain a concern. 

These are some of the options that could strengthen Geno Smith’s quarterback room. As such, it will be interesting to watch who the Jets finally pick. 

Despite other veteran options available, much of New York’s success this season will depend on whether Geno Smith can get his form back. 

Can Geno Smith Bounce Back in New York? 

Smith's form in the 2025 season was not that great with the Las Vegas Raiders. However, according to Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson, Geno Smith is the best quarterback in the AFC East.

“Geno proving you all wrong this year. Come back to this after Week 3,” said Wilson via an X post by NFL DROP.

Smith set his career heights with 4,282 passing yards and 30 touchdowns. He also led Seattle to a 10-win season and playoff berth in 2022. He had some promising years with the Seahawks as well, recording 3,025 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 17 interceptions.

If Smith can return to that level while the Jets strengthen their quarterback depth, New York could stabilize one of its biggest concerns heading into the season.

Read more at Quarter Back Central!

Written by

Evince Das

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit