Three outside-the-box QBs the Jets should consider pursuing

New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh may have told reporters that he’s committed to Zach Wilson as the team’s starting quarterback for the rest of the season, but it felt like there was a bit of insincerity when he actually said it.

While not overly impressive, Wilson was efficient in relief of Aaron Rodgers. He completed 14 of 21 passes for 140 yards, a touchdown and an interception. He also led the Jets on three scoring drives in the second half to send the game to overtime, where special teams ultimately won them the game.

Things went about as badly as they could for Wilson last season, but perhaps 2023 is his shot at redemption. Whether Wilson really is New York’s QB1 or not, here’s three players the Jets should look into acquiring for no other reason than to keep Wilson from getting too comfortable:

1. Malik Willis, Tennessee Titans

Willis is a holdover from the Jon Robinson era, and new Titans general manager Ran Carthon already got his guy when he picked Will Levis 33rd overall in April’s draft. Although Willis was Ryan Tannehill’s backup in Week 1 against the New Orleans Saints, it’s assumed the job will go to Levis once he’s actually 100% health.

The 24-year-old Willis had a strong showing in the preseason. He completed 41 of 62 passes (68.3 completion percentage) and accounted for 615 yards (485 passing, 130 rushing) with four total touchdowns. He showed some solid progression from his rookie season and appears to be more comfortable running an NFL offense. Perhaps Willis is worth the gamble of trading a fourth- or fifth-round pick to get?

2. Philip Rivers, retired (allegedly)

Rivers hasn’t played since the 2020 season, but he was allegedly ready to make a comeback for Kyle Shanahan in February had the 49ers made it to the Super Bowl, so how rusty can he really be?

In his last season, Rivers took an Indianapolis Colts team devoid of any real talent offensively, aside from Jonathan Taylor, and led them to an 11-5 record while throwing for 4,169 yards and 24 touchdowns. Give Rivers a group of pass-catchers like Garrett Wilson and Allen Lazard plus a strong run game, and he could still be highly effective. Even at the age of 41.