Two notable free-agent QBs reportedly reached out to Jets

Carson Wentz Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Two notable free-agent quarterbacks reportedly reached out to the Jets

By Michael Gallagher | Last updated 9/24/23

The more lackluster performances Zach Wilson continues to rack up, the more likely it becomes the New York Jets will explore the idea of bringing in a veteran signal caller.

Though head coach Robert Saleh gave Wilson a vote of confidence following Sunday’s 15-10 loss to the New England Patriots, he at least has a few options if he decides to move on from Wilson, including free agents Matt Ryan and Carson Wentz, per Jay Glazer of Fox Sports.

CBS Sports, whom Ryan works for as a broadcaster, also confirmed that Ryan’s agent had reached out to the Jets about possibly suiting up for them this season.

#Jets HC Robert Saleh was asked if he could lose his locker room by sticking w/ Zach Wilson, ‘I’m not worried about the locker room, we’ve got a great locker room they’ll be fine’ + he refused to address the Matt Ryan/Carson Wentz rumors about NYJ rejecting their advances … pic.twitter.com/RAn4Oz1uQJ
— Paul Andrew Esden Jr (@BoyGreen25) September 24, 2023

Wentz has been linked to the Jets before, most recently by former Jets QB Boomer Esiason, who stated even if Wentz plays like he did during 2022 with the Washington Commanders, he likely won’t be as bad as Wilson is right now.

A Pro Bowler in 2017, Wentz hasn’t played since Jan. 1. He threw for 143 yards and three interceptions in a 24-10 loss to the Cleveland Browns and was benched for Taylor Heinicke eight games into the season.

Conversely, Ryan’s last appearance came in December 2022 with the Indianapolis Colts. He threw for 182 yards and a touchdown but was benched the following week for Nick Foles. The 38-year-old Ryan went 4-7-1 as the Colts starter last year, throwing for 3,057 yards, 14 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

Both quarterbacks are free agents and wouldn’t cost the Jets any draft capital to acquire.

More must-reads: