Quarterback Russell Wilson weighs New York Jets offer against TV career

Free agent quarterback Russell Wilson is weighing a contract offer to join the New York Jets against a potential move into television broadcasting.

The 37-year-old visited the franchise last week to discuss becoming the primary backup to current starting quarterback Geno Smith.

However, the veteran passer is also holding discussions with CBS Sports regarding a studio analyst role for their NFL coverage.

Decision looms for experienced playmaker

Speaking at a charity event in New York on Wednesday, the former Seattle Seahawks star confirmed he has multiple options on the table.

“They offered me, and I’m trying to figure out what the next best thing is for me to do,” he told the New York Post.

“I still know I can play ball at a high level, but I also have the opportunity to do TV, so we’ll see what happens.”

The Jets are eager to add valuable experience to a depth chart that currently features inexperienced backups Bailey Zappe, Brady Cook and rookie fourth-round pick Cade Klubnik.

Reuniting with a familiar face

Accepting the proposal would reunite the seasoned play-caller with Smith, with whom he shared a quarterback room for three seasons in Seattle.

The Jets consulted Smith on potential additions to the roster, and the established starter reportedly spoke highly of his former colleague.

Wilson spent last season on a $10.5m (£8.3m) one-year deal with the New York Giants, but was benched after starting the campaign with three consecutive defeats.

Meanwhile, newly appointed Jets offensive coordinator Frank Reich has thrown his full support behind Smith as the undisputed leader of the offense.

“We’re getting the best version of who he is,” Reich stated during his first media availability.

“And I think his best football’s ahead of him.”