Quarterback Russell Wilson might have played his last snap with the New York Giants. Will Wilson play in 2026, and if so, for what team?
Russell Wilson’s Tenure With the New York Giants
Giants are expected to start QB Jameis Winston vs. the Packers, per @JordanRaanan and me. pic.twitter.com/eEVQxeOrfz
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 12, 2025
After spending last year with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Wilson signed with the Giants and started the 2025 campaign as the starter.
Wilson started the first three games of the season. In the second game of the season, Wilson threw for a career-high 450 yards in the 40-37 loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
In Week 3, Wilson looked like a different quarterback against the Kansas City Chiefs. Wilson completed 18 of 32 passes for 160 yards and two interceptions in the 22-9 loss.
Wilson’s poor play led to chants of “We want Dart” from Giants’ fans at MetLife Stadium.
The following week, Giants fans received their wish as rookie Jaxson Dart replaced Wilson as the starter. Wilson has played sparingly since Week 4.
During Week 10’s loss to the Chicago Bears, Dart suffered a concussion and left the game. Wilson came in and finished 3 of 7 for 45 yards.
The following day, the Giants fired Brian Daboll. With Dart in concussion protocol, the Giants will likely turn to the bench for a new quarterback.
In his first move as interim head coach, Mike Kafka named Jameis Winston the starting quarterback when the Giants play the Green Bay Packers.
“I have a lot of confidence in Jameis, have a lot of confidence in Russ, and he’ll be the backup as Jaxson works through the concussion protocol,” Kafka said via Giants.com. “I think our players are pros. They’re pros. So, my job is to get them in the best position to be successful and work through the week here and continue to make adjustments with the staff as we’re going to continue to prepare for Green Bay, which is the most important thing.”
Wilson will be the backup quarterback. If Dart misses significant time with a concussion, Wilson could see time at quarterback. However, it’s not guaranteed.
Russell Wilson’s Next Team
Russell Wilson was asked how he reacted to Jameis Winston getting the start on Sunday:
"Obviously, I want to play, but Jameis has worked his butt off to give him a great opportunity. He's a guy that's played in this league for a long time and he's one of my closest friends." pic.twitter.com/0ArKisyjdD
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) November 12, 2025
With Wilson’s demotion, the quarterback will likely not be on the team in 2026. Wilson only signed a one-year deal and will become a free agent in 2026.
Wilson’s time as an NFL starting quarterback is likely over. However, Wilson could transition into a veteran backup who mentors a young quarterback.
The Tennessee Titans come to mind as a team that needs a veteran backup. If the Titans trade Will Levis in the offseason, Wilson could go in and serve as the backup to Cam Ward.
The same thing can be said for the New Orleans Saints, who have Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler.
Don’t count out the Cleveland Browns, who could be drafting another quarterback in 2026.
