Jets linked with two big-name veteran quarterbacks amid Drew Allar whispers

Even after the New York Jets brought veteran Geno Smith back to the organization to serve as their starting quarterback for the 2026 season, rumors suggested the Jets also wanted to sign fellow journeyman Carson Wentz. However, Wentz has since returned to the Minnesota Vikings.

Thus, some understandably have wondered if the Jets could ultimately trade for a different signal-caller, such as Minnesota's J.J. McCarthy (who may or may not still have a future with that club). For a mailbag published on Friday, NFL reporter Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports addressed the Jets' plans. 

Jets not likely to trade for a QB, but...

"I don’t think they’re going to trade for another quarterback, but I do think they’re likely to sign another veteran as sort of Geno insurance," Vacchiano wrote. 

Specifically, Vacchiano linked the Jets with Super Bowl champion quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Joe Flacco. 

Most recently, the New York Giants benched Wilson after just three starts this past fall. There's currently no indication that any team wants to give him an opportunity to even compete for a starting job this summer. 

As for Flacco, he seemed to have something left in the tank during portions of the 2025 season as he filled in for injured Cincinnati Bengals star Joe Burrow. 

What of those Jets, Drew Allar rumors? 

NFL reporter Connor Hughes of SNY is among those who mentioned the Jets could take a flier on Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar during the upcoming draft after Allar impressed onlookers with his scripted pro-day workout performance. Allar is expected to be a late Day 2 or early Day 3 draft choice unless some team makes a bold move to get him on the night of April 23. 

"I also wouldn’t be shocked to see the Jets draft a quarterback on Day 2," Vacchiano added. 

Those who think the Jets could view McCarthy as a lottery-ticket option should remember that general manager Darren Mougey may already be looking at the 2027 draft regarding the club's long-term quarterback situation. Additionally, the Vikings reportedly "are not ready to give up on" McCarthy despite the fact that they recently signed Kyler Murray to a team-friendly one-year contract.