As the 2026 NFL offseason continues forward, the Green Bay Packers have remained relatively quiet. Outside of signing former Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, no impact additions have been made.
There are still quite a few areas that Brian Gutekunst and the front office could look to improve. Also, the Packers have a few things that they need to get done this offseason.
One of those needs will be landing a new backup quarterback behind Jordan Love.
Malik Willis has provided elite backup quarterback play over the last two years. Due to his impressive play, he earned a three-year, $67.5 million contract with the Miami Dolphins in free agency. Green Bay must replace him with a reliable option.
Quite a few names have been suggested for the Packers. However, a new player can be added to the potential option list.
Green Bay Packers Emerge as Potential Russell Wilson Suitor
Sports Illustrated’s Eva Geitheim took a look at the best fits for the five best free agent quarterbacks left on the market. When it came to Wilson, Green Bay was on the list.
“After Russell Wilson struggled last season and was swiftly benched for Jaxson Dart, he makes the most sense as a backup,” Geitheim wrote. “The Packers, Jets and Browns are all teams that potentially could prefer an experienced backup in Wilson.”
Wilson would not have been at the top of many wishlists entering the NFL offseason. That being said, he would be the kind of player who could step in and perform at a high level if called upon.
At 37 years of age, Wilson still has some football left in the tank. Could he actually make sense for the Packers as a backup behind Love for one season?
Does Russell Wilson Make Sense for the Packers?
Honestly, the fit would make sense for both parties. Green Bay wouldn’t have to lock in more than one season on his deal. Wilson would have a chance to be a backup on a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
During the 2025 NFL season with the New York Giants, Wilson played in six total games. He threw for 831 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions, while completing 58 percent of his passes and running for 106 yards.
Back in the 2024 campaign with the Pittsburgh Steelers, he completed 63.7 percent of his passes for 2,482 yards, 16 touchdowns, and just five interceptions in 11 games. Wilson also picked up 155 yards and scored two touchdowns with his legs.
In each of the last two seasons, the Packers have had to bring Willis into game action due to injuries suffered by Love. They can’t afford to go with an unproven option.
Wilson may not be the most exciting picking for Green Bay, but the Packers would be wise to consider him. At the end of the day, he has a proven track record and has won a lot of football games. Gutekunst and company could do far worse behind Love.
Packers Emerging as Potential Russell Wilson Free Agency Suitor