Wilson’s legacy on the gridiron is undeniable: he is a 10-time Pro Bowler, the 2020 Walter Payton Man of the Year, a two-time NFC champion, and a Super Bowl XLVIII Champion with the Seattle Seahawks. Leaving the game ranked 16th all-time with 46,966 career passing yards, his impact on the league will be felt for years to come.

As Wilson transitions to the booth, the four franchises he once led find themselves in vastly different situations today at the quarterback position.

The current state of Russell Wilson’s former teams

Seattle Seahawks

Entering the NFL as a modest third-round pick (75th overall) in 2012, Wilson quickly defied all expectations in the Emerald City and secured a historic Super Bowl victory in 2014. In a poetic twist of fate, the very same year Wilson announced his retirement, the Seahawks captured another Lombardi Trophy—winning Super Bowl LX under the leadership of quarterback Sam Darnold.

Darnold, who completed a massive career resurgence by guiding the NFC West powerhouse back to the mountaintop, is now firmly entrenched as Seattle’s franchise QB1.

Denver Broncos

In 2022, the Broncos executed a blockbuster trade with the Seahawks to acquire the quarterback who had famously defeated them in the Super Bowl nearly a decade prior. Unfortunately, the high-stakes partnership never quite clicked, and the two sides parted ways in 2024.

Today, Denver’s quarterback room is in a much more promising position with Bo Nix under center. Nix successfully led the Broncos to the AFC Championship game last season; though the club fell to the New England Patriots after Nix was sidelined with an injury, the future remains incredibly bright in Mile High.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Following his release from Denver, Wilson signed a one-year deal with Pittsburgh. While he managed to guide Mike Tomlin’s squad to a playoff berth, the offense lacked the long-term consistency management desired, leading to his exit after just one season.

To replace him, the Steelers made waves by signing four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers enjoyed a solid 2025 campaign, orchestrating another playoff appearance for the black and gold. The franchise is fully running it back, confirming Rodgers’ return as the definitive starter for the 2026 season.

New York Giants

Wilson’s final destination in the NFL was a brief, rocky stint with the New York Giants. Though he earned the Week 1 starting nod, his uneven performances failed to satisfy head coach Brian Daboll, resulting in a swift benching.

The reins of the offense were handed to rookie Jaxson Dart, whom the Giants selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Bringing a dynamic dual-threat capability reminiscent of a young Wilson, Dart earned the full trust of the coaching staff, while Wilson concluded his final season as the team’s QB3 behind Dart and veteran Jameis Winston.

Patrick Mahomes sends heartfelt tribute

Following his retirement video, praise poured in from players across the league. Among the most notable reactions was a classy, heartfelt exchange with Kansas City Chiefs superstar Patrick Mahomes.

“Congrats on a helluva carreer man!” Patrick Mahomes wrote on his Instagram post. “Thanks, 15. Love we got to share the field together! Keep being an inspiration to the kids!” Wilson replied.

“Wilson may not be retiring, but at least a pause on his playing career,” Ian Rapoport reported on his X account.

If Wilson indeed goes through with his new job opportunity, he’d likely sit out for the entire 2026 NFL season. However, the door will remain open for him to return if he feels like it and an opening presents itself around the league.

It’s happened before

It would be surprising, but not unprecedented. The NFL has seen players take a year off and return to action before, and Wilson could be another example to join that list. Last season, for example, quarterback Philip Rivers came out of retirement to join the Indianapolis Colts amid a QB injury crisis during the regular season.

For Wilson, if he wants to step on the gridiron again, he would have to quit the job he recently accepted at CBS Sports. It goes against NFL rules and policy for members of an NFL organization to be part of game-day coverage for television networks.

Wilson’s new job on TV

As first reported by Ryan Glasspiegel, Wilson is taking a job with CBS Sports over an offer from the Jets. Wilson will be replacing Matt Ryan, who left the slot vacant to become president of football for the Atlanta Falcons, on CBS’ NFL Today pregame show on Sundays.

Jets QB depth chart

As for the Jets, they are missing out on the Super Bowl XLVIII champion, but they have already named Geno Smith their starting quarterback for the 2026 NFL season. Moreover, New York trusts that rookie Cade Klubnik can develop into an important player while learning behind Geno.

The Jets’ QB depth chart is rounded out by Bailey Zappe, who is currently considered the backup quarterback, and Brady Cook, who is the early frontrunner to be the odd man out by the time New York announces its 53-man roster.

According to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, the Jets want to see what Klubnik can do before adding a more established veteran backup. Wilson is considered the top target for New York should they acquire another seasoned signal-caller ahead of the 2026 NFL campaign.

As it stands, however, whether Wilson is actually interested in playing again next season remains uncertain. Wilson has two offers on the table, and they could not be any more different. Per NBC, Wilson is torn between joining the Jets and taking a television job at CBS.

Wilson’s numbers in 2025

Coming off a concerning campaign with the Giants last season, the Jets should know exactly what to expect from Wilson should he sign with the club in Florham Park. In 2025, Wilson was named the starting quarterback for the G-Men, but lasted only three weeks in that role.

He did put on a vintage performance against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 2’s 40-37 overtime loss, including a miraculous moon ball that took fans all across the league back in time. However, his performances in both the opening week and Week 3 led to the Giants starting Jaxson Dart, and the quarterback debate was over.

Aside from a couple of snaps here and there, Wilson virtually did not see the field again. If he were to join the Jets, it could signal they have concerns about heading into the season with Klubnik as the backup quarterback to Geno Smith. Perhaps having Wilson in that role is the safer option.

Klubnik looked good so far

Still, the Clemson alum has shown flashes during the offseason, and New York may be just shy of having all its potential doubts cleared. The Jets’ fourth-round pick (110th overall) impressed during rookie camp, but it remains to be seen if he can stand out when more experienced players join practices.

Per Sports Illustrated, the Jets’ organized team activities (OTAs) will take place on May 27-29, June 1-2, 4, and 8-11. Thus, if a decision is to be made on Wilson, it would most likely occur after June 11. By then, the Jets should have a clear view of where Klubnik stands and where he can take them.

“They offered me (Jets), and I’m trying to figure out what the next best thing is for me to do. I still know I can play ball at a high level, but I also have an opportunity to do TV,” Wilson said via The New York Post.

Wilson made $10.5 million last season with the Giants, a team that ultimately ended up using Jaxson Dart more, and even Jameis Winston at times. An 0–3 start was enough for him to be benched very early in the season.

Now, the veteran quarterback has several options for the next stage of his career: staying in New York but switching sides, or taking on a new role that would take him away from the week-to-week pressure. What path will the former Super Bowl champion ultimately choose?

The QB room for Aaron Glenn’s Jets

The New York Jets enter the 2026 season with a revitalized quarterback room that balances veteran leadership with high-upside youth. The unit is headlined by Geno Smith, who provides a steady, experienced hand to lead the offense, alongside veteran Bailey Zappe, known for his readiness to step in as a reliable depth option.

Adding a surge of excitement to the roster are Cade Klubnik and Brady Cook, both of whom are expected to compete for meaningful snaps as the franchise looks toward its long-term future under center.

Jets trust Geno Smith

Amid uncertainty surrounding Russell Wilson following his unsuccessful stint with the Giants, the Jets are pleased with Geno Smith and trust what the veteran can bring them in the upcoming season.

“I’d not met Geno before here and I’m kind of glad because I’m even more impressed with him now meeting him in person. I feel his resilience, his toughness,” Offensive Coordinator Frank Reich revealed to the press.

Recent reports confirm that Mike Tomlin has joined NBC as a football analyst for Football Night in America. The former Pittsburgh Steelers coach chose to step away from the sidelines while remaining connected to the sport through the media.

A similar transition could be in store for Russell Wilson. Although the Jets are interested in keeping him in New York following his exit from the Giants, a television offer may be more attractive for the Super Bowl XLVIII champion.

Report: Russell Wilson could stay in New York, but for CBS

According to rumors, Russell Wilson prefers to stay in New York, with the Jets really interested in him as QB2. However, it may no longer be as a player, but as a top NFL analyst for CBS.

Andrew Marchand of The Athletic reports that Wilson is in “deep discussions” regarding a broadcasting role. CBS’s studio is located in Manhattan, making it a perfect logistical fit.

The opening at CBS follows Matt Ryan’s departure from The NFL Today to join the Atlanta Falcons as President of Football Operations. This has created a high-profile vacancy that Wilson is a strong candidate to fill.

Is the Jets’ door closed for Russell Wilson?

Not necessarily. Wilson remains a primary candidate to back up Geno Smith for the Jets. However, the prospect of sitting behind the man who was once his own backup in Seattle may not appeal to “DangeRuss.”

Wilson is no longer viewed as a reliable starter, and his options for such a role are minimal. After a difficult year with the Giants, stepping aside to preserve his legacy as an analyst may be his best move.

According to journalist Ari Meirov on X, the quarterback was at the Jets’ facilities, which opens the door to a potential move to Aaron Glenn’s team. Wilson became a free agent following his last season with the G-Men.

It’s also worth noting that the veteran once shared a locker room with Geno Smith on the Seattle Seahawks. Could they be reunited again, this time in the AFC East?

A frustrated spell in New York

Russell Wilson’s tenure with the New York Giants in 2025 was a disappointing chapter for the veteran, as he was quickly sidelined in favor of rookie Jaxson Dart. After signing a one-year deal, Wilson appeared in only 6 games, finishing the season with 831 passing yards, 3 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions.

His campaign started as the starter but spiraled after a rough Week 1 and a Week 3 demotion, despite a “throwback” Week 2 performance against the Cowboys where he threw for 450 yards while playing through a hamstring injury. With a mediocre 77.4 passer rating and a completion percentage of just 58.0%, Wilson ultimately plummeted to the No. 3 spot on the depth chart, leaving him as an unsigned free agent heading into the 2026 season.

Wilson’s Super Bowl pedigree

In Super Bowl XLVIII, Russell Wilson led the Seattle Seahawks to a dominant 43-8 victory over the Denver Broncos. Delivering a remarkably efficient performance, Wilson completed 18 of 25 passes (72%) for 206 yards and 2 touchdowns with zero interceptions, earning a stellar 123.1 passer rating. This victory made him one of the youngest quarterbacks to ever win a ring and secured the first championship in Seahawks franchise history.

Do the Jets need another quarterback?

Entering his second year as the New York Jets head coach in 2026, Aaron Glenn has completely overhauled his quarterback room to provide offensive coordinator Frank Reich with both veteran stability and future potential. After a rough 3-14 debut season, Glenn and GM Darren Mougey made a bold move to bring back a familiar face, deciding to trust Geno Smith as their QB1 following his arrival from the Raiders in free agency.

To secure the long-term future, the Jets also traded up in the 2026 Draft to select Clemson’s Cade Klubnik, an athletic “winner” who Glenn intends to develop behind Smith. This duo, supplemented by veteran depth, represents a significant shift for a franchise desperate to exit the AFC East cellar and finally capitalize on their recent influx of first-round talent.

According to a compiled list shared by Max Loeb on X, the “second wave” of free agency features a mix of future Hall of Famers and explosive playmakers. Teams are now evaluating their depth charts after the draft, and names like Stefon Diggs and Deebo Samuel could be at the top of many executive wishlists as they look to finalize their squads for training camp.

While several teams are desperate for veteran leadership at the game’s most important position, the quarterback market remains in a state of flux. It is worth noting that Aaron Rodgers is one of the available free agent quarterbacks, but Mike Tomlin still believes he will return to Pittsburgh to lead the Steelers for at least one more season.

Top quarterbacks, receivers, and running backs

The quarterback market is currently headlined by Russell Wilson and Tyrod Taylor, both of whom bring over a decade of professional experience to the table. While Wilson is coming off a stint where he showed flashes of his former Pro Bowl self, Taylor remains one of the most reliable “bridge” options in the league for teams transitioning between eras.

At wide receiver, the talent pool is exceptionally deep with Tyreek Hill, Stefon Diggs, and Deebo Samuel all searching for the right system. They are joined by the likes of Keenan Allen, Jauan Jennings, and Brandin Cooks, creating a market where Super Bowl-contending teams can find high-end secondary scoring options without the long-term risk of a rookie contract.

The running back position features a “who’s who” of former 1,000-yard rushers, including Joe Mixon, Najee Harris, and the versatile Austin Ekeler. Besides veterans being available, teams like the Chiefs trust young drafted quarterbacks to earn a roster spot, which could led to a bigger market for veteran backs.

Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt, formerly one of the league’s most feared duos, are looking to prove they have enough gas left in the tank following recent injury spells. With the 2026 season approaching, these backs will likely see their markets heat up as teams realize that a veteran presence in the backfield is essential for pass protection and goal-line situations.

Tight ends and offensive line stalwarts

The tight end market is bolstered by David Njoku and Jonnu Smith, two players known for their elite athleticism and ability to create mismatches in the red zone. Darren Waller and the versatile Taysom Hill also remain available, though their potential salary demands may require creative cap maneuvering for teams already tight on space following the draft.

On the offensive line, Taylor Decker and Joel Bitonio represent the gold standard for veteran leadership and consistent grading in the trenches. These stalwarts are joined by Mekhi Becton and Jonah Williams, both of whom offer significant upside for teams willing to invest in their physical tools and previous starting experience at the tackle positions.

Earlier this year, the Cardinals decided to release Kyler Murray, who quickly joined the Vikings. This left Arizona with a difficult choice: to enter the 2026 season with a veteran or draft a new franchise quarterback.

It was initially expected that Jacoby Brissett would take over as QB1. However, he has skipped the Cardinals’ first offseason workouts due to a contract dispute—an issue that could force Arizona to sign another signal-caller.

Brissett’s holdout may lead the Cardinals to another veteran QB

As of today, the Cardinals are not regarded as true contenders. With Kyler Murray’s exit, the biggest question revolves around the future QB1, and there is currently no clear answer.

Brissett wants a new contract. In 2025, he signed a two-year, $12.5 million deal with Arizona that runs through the 2026 season. He is aware that he is the most reliable option the club currently has and is using that as leverage.

Nevertheless, his holdout may backfire. Jimmy Garoppolo was linked to Arizona after Murray’s exit, and unfortunately for Brissett, Jimmy G is not the only veteran option available on the market.

While some believe Aaron Rodgers could be tempted by Arizona, the truth is that the NFC West is highly competitive, and he may prefer to stay in the AFC North with the Steelers.

Another real option is Russell Wilson, who has struggled since his departure from the Seahawks. However, he knows the NFC West incredibly well, which could be key in helping Arizona avoid being viewed as the worst team in the league.

Other veterans like Tyrod Taylor or Derek Carr are on the market, but Carr reportedly only has eyes for a Super Bowl contender—a status the Cardinals are far from reaching.

Are the Cardinals drafting a QB in 2026?

In recent days, the Cardinals hosted Ty Simpson for a pre-draft visit. They currently hold the No. 3 overall pick, giving them a legitimate chance to land the former Alabama standout.

However, reports suggest Arizona may not be interested in using such a high pick on a quarterback. The Cardinals might decide to trade down and wait for the later rounds to select a signal-caller, hoping to find a “hidden gem” on Day 2 or 3 of the upcoming draft.

“I wanna play a few more years for sure. I think for me, I’ve always had the vision of getting to 40 at least. I think the game is different. Quarterbacks, we get hit. It’s not, you know, we get hit hard, but, there’s certain rules. I mean, back in the day when I started, bro, it was you just getting clobbered. So, I feel like the game allows you to, you know, live a little longer I guess.”

After winning the Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks, Wilson did not find success with teams like the Denver Broncos or the Pittsburgh Steelers. Last season, in what could have been his last chance as a starting QB, he struggled with the Giants and Jaxson Dart emerged as the future for the franchise.

Who will be NY Giants starting QB in 2026?

Jaxson Dart will be the starting quarterback for the New York Giants for the 2026 season. After moments of brilliance in his rookie year, the key will be for him to stay healthy, avoiding injuries and, especially, concussions.

Who is NY Giants head coach?

John Harbaugh is the head coach of the Giants for the 2026 season. After nearly two decades at the helm of the Baltimore Ravens, he was fired and is now looking for a fresh start in New York.

Names like Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson and Daniel Jones hover over the conversation, each carrying a different question about value, durability and direction. Their futures are tied not only to performance, but to franchises searching for clarity under center.

Free agency rarely follows a script, and quarterback movement tends to trigger league-wide consequences. What begins as negotiation can quickly become transformation, setting the stage for unexpected contenders and quiet endings long before training camps reopen across the country.

NFL quarterbacks with free agency in 2026

NFL teams across the league are gauging how to address one of the sport’s most pivotal roster questions: quarterback play. With a slew of veteran signal-callers set to hit free agency, clubs with unstable rooms are weighing their next move, knowing one signing can tip the balance between contender and also-ran.

The spotlight on marquee names like Aaron Rodgers, Daniel Jones and Russell Wilson underscores the league’s broader search for stability under center. Beyond the biggest names, emerging talents such as Malik Willis also figure into the QB narrative, offering intriguing upside for teams hesitant to invest big in aging stars.

The choices organizations make in free agency — whether to lock in proven leadership, gamble on resurgence or pivot to youth — could have ripple effects throughout the 2026 season and beyond.

During a recent episode of Hot Ones Versus, Wilson and Ciara faced rapid-fire questions while trying to avoid the infamous Last Dab. The quarterback chose to respond instead of taking the heat, ranking four passers, including himself. It was a lighthearted segment, but one that quickly made waves among fans.

“I’m gonna go Peyton Manning fourth, only because I’ve beaten you, Peyton, in the Super Bowl,” Wilson said. “Me at No. 3, Patrick Mahomes No. 2 because he won multiple Super Bowls, and Tom Brady No. 1.” The competitive tone brought laughs, yet it also underscored how difficult cross-era comparisons can be.

Mahomes remaining in the conversation

It was impossible to minimize what Mahomes had accomplished in a short period of time, leaving him out of any elite tier felt unrealistic. Even when the Kansas City Chiefs stumbled, his résumé and postseason performances kept him central to the debate. Around the league, executives, former players and media voices continued to measure others against his standard.

Sustained success, MVP-level production and deep NFL playoff runs had become expectations rather than surprises. That reality explained why Wilson slotted him just behind Brady, acknowledging both legacy and current dominance. Few active players commanded that type of universal respect.

Wilson’s season numbers

Wilson’s 2025 campaign with the New York Giants ended earlier than many anticipated. After a Week 3 loss, he was benched and eventually yielded the starting job to rookie Jaxson Dart, transitioning into a veteran mentor role for the remainder of the year.

Across six appearances, three of them starts, Wilson threw for 831 yards with three touchdowns and three interceptions. While speculation about his future continues, his voice still carries weight.