Jets linked to trade for polarizing Colts QB amid Russell Wilson uncertainty

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May 3, 2026 - 20:38

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Jets linked to trade for polarizing Colts QB amid Russell Wilson uncertainty originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Jets went out and traded for a quarterback in Geno Smith this offseason. He will be their starter in2 026, and after taking Cade Klubnik on Day 3 of the draft, they have their young developmental QB option as well.

But the team is still looking for an actual backup quarterback. They've shown interest in Russell Wilson, but a recent report revealed he might be retiring for a TV deal.

To fill this backup QB spot instead of Wilson in case of a TV deal, Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox linked the Jets to polarizing Indianapolis Colts QB Anthony Richardson in what would be one of the more fascinating pickups of the offseason.

Jets linked to Anthony Richardson trade

"Potential Suitors: Arizona Cardinals, New York Jets," Knox writes on Colts QB Anthony Richardson.

With the Colts likely to trade Richardson this offseason after permitting him to seek a trade, the Jets could be a possible option for the polarizing QB.

He's a dual-threat option that's a bit different than Smith and Klubnik for the Jets. He has extremely high upside with one of the best arms in the sport, and also some great rushing ability.

The issue is that his floor is very low. He completed just 47.7% of his passes in 2024, and had eight touchdowns to 12 interceptions with 1,814 yards passing on 264 attempts in 11 games played.

More: Aaron Glenn believes Geno Smith can lead Jets to 'the promised land'

He's dealt with injuries in his career, including a freak accident this past season that occurred pre-game and injured his orbital.

The Jets could take a chance on Richardson with a late-round pick in 2027, but they might be better off adding a veteran who can be a safer floor option for the young skill players.

One of the issues last year for the Jets was their inability to get a good look at the young players on offense. They benched Justin Fields since he couldn't get the ball to their young supporting cast, and the same issue would come up with Richardson.

A trade for the Colts' polarizing QB isn't likely for the Jets, as he's not a good fit for the team. But Knox still named the Jets as a possible suitor, and a trade would certainly be interesting if they pulled one off.