The NFL has shifted into the minicamp phase of the offseason workout schedule. Teams will soon turn their attention to training camp and the preseason.
That doesn’t mean competition hasn’t already started. The New York Jets could have a compelling quarterback battle brewing—all they need is a decision from Russell Wilson.
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After acquiring Geno Smith, the Jets appeared to have their quarterback situation settled. However, reports indicate they’ve also offered a contract to Wilson, who is weighing whether to sign or retire. If he joins the team, this could set up an intriguing and underrated quarterback competition this summer.
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Fans may already be wondering: who would win this battle? Smith backed up Wilson for three years in Seattle before taking over as the starter in 2022. While Wilson hasn’t replicated his peak Seattle success, he has shown he still has something left.
Nov 16, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants quarterback Jameis Winston (19) celebrates with quarterback Russell Wilson (3) after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Green Bay Packers at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn ImagesHere’s a quick case for both quarterbacks in this potential training camp showdown:
Why Russell Wilson could win the job
Wilson’s decorated career immediately stands out. A Super Bowl champion with 10 Pro Bowl selections, he brings the pedigree teams look for in a QB1. That said, Wilson is now 37 and well removed from his prime Seattle years.
Still, he proved in 2025 that he can produce. In a loss to the Dallas Cowboys, Wilson threw for over 400 yards and three touchdowns. However, a costly overtime interception highlighted the inconsistency that can come with a late-stage career.
He also gave the Pittsburgh Steelers their best quarterback play since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement—admittedly a low bar, but still a meaningful sign that he can contribute.
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Wilson can likely play another year or two at a competitive level. If the Jets want to end their nearly two-decade playoff drought, he could give them a legitimate shot.
Oct 23, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) is tackled by Baltimore Ravens nose tackle Brandon Williams (98) during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY SportsWhy Geno Smith could win the job
Smith brings one of the most valuable traits in sports: competitive patience. He not only waited behind Wilson in Seattle but has shown resilience throughout his career. That patience ultimately created the opportunity for his resurgence.
Smith endured difficult stretches with both New York teams from 2013 to 2017, learning how to navigate adversity. When he joined Seattle in 2019, he recognized a potential opportunity and stayed ready. That decision paid off.
After the Seahawks traded Wilson in 2022, they turned to Smith instead of drafting a replacement. He led the team to the playoffs that season and posted winning records as a starter over the next two years. In 2025, the Raiders traded for Smith, partly due to his strong relationship with Pete Carroll.
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Although his time with the Raiders didn’t fully pan out, Smith still demonstrated he can perform at this stage of his career. Now, he has another chance to prove himself—assuming Wilson joins the roster.
Jan 5, 2020; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) and quarterback Geno Smith (7) walk out of the tunnel for pregame warmups before the start of the NFC Wild Card playoff football game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Likely winner?
Smith enters this situation well-positioned, especially with his familiarity in New York. Still, Wilson’s leadership and résumé could allow him to win over teammates and coaches quickly.
That said, Wilson likely won’t have a long leash. We’ve seen similar situations before, and if he struggles, the team could turn to Smith. In the long run, Smith’s patience and steady approach might help him reclaim the starting role—possibly as soon as 2026.
So the question remains: who should start for the Jets—Russell Wilson or Geno Smith?