Could Titans' Ryan Tannehill replace Jets' Zach Wilson?

A familiar name is once again being linked with the New York Jets as quarterback Zach Wilson continues to struggle while serving as the first-choice replacement for the injured Aaron Rodgers.

For a piece published Wednesday, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano suggested the Jets could pursue current Tennessee Titans starter Ryan Tannehill.

"He has a connection with Jets passing game coordinator Todd Downing, a former Titans play-caller," Fowler said about Tannehill. "His $27M salary is modest for a reputable NFL starter. And the Jets just need someone who can get the ball to (star wide receiver) Garrett Wilson on third down. Tannehill can get that done."

The Jets reportedly were "much higher" on Tannehill back in February than some thought at that time but ultimately landed Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers in late April. Rodgers went down with a season-ending torn Achilles in Week 1, and the Jets have since fallen to 1-2 with Zach Wilson atop the depth chart. 

It was reported this week that Kirk Cousins of the Minnesota Vikings isn't a realistic option for the Jets heading into the first Sunday of October. Fowler mentioned that Tannehill would "cost less draft capital" than Cousins in a potential trade, and Graziano added Tannehill would "be a lot easier to get" of the two veterans. 

Tannehill turned 35 years old this summer, is in the final year of his contract, has failed to impress for the 1-2 Titans and shares a quarterback room with both 2022 third-round draft pick Malik Willis and 2023 second-round draft choice Will Levis. Per ESPN stats, Tannehill ended Week 3 ranked 32nd out of 34 qualified players with a 27.9 adjusted QBR, and he tossed one touchdown with three interceptions across the campaign's first three games. 

Jets head coach Robert Saleh may face a locker-room mutiny as soon as Monday morning if Zach Wilson produces another stinker at home against the 2-1 Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday night. Tannehill is, on paper, better than both unproven backup Tim Boyle and journeyman Trevor Siemian, so the Jets could and maybe should give Tennessee a call if Gang Green falls to 1-3.