The team releases Bailey Zappe as they seek quarterback depth ahead of upcoming games
Category: Sports
The New York Jets have signed quarterback Will Levis to their practice squad, a move confirmed on September 22, 2026. This decision follows the team's release of fellow quarterback Bailey Zappe from the practice squad, as the Jets look to bolster their depth at the position.
Levis, a 27-year-old who was a second-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, previously spent three seasons with the Tennessee Titans. His tenure with the Titans ended in August 2026, following a lackluster performance and injury issues that saw him miss the entire 2025 season due to shoulder surgery. The Jets had worked out Levis earlier in September, and after evaluating his potential, they opted to bring him on board.
During his time in Tennessee, Levis started 21 games, completing 61% of his passes for a total of 3,899 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions. His best season came in 2023 when he threw for 1,808 yards and eight touchdowns over nine starts. Unfortunately, his performance dipped the following year, where he managed 13 touchdowns against 12 interceptions in 12 starts, leading to his eventual benching.
Levis’ career took a turn when the Titans selected quarterback Cam Ward with the first pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, effectively sidelining Levis. After requesting his release from the Titans, which was granted, Levis found himself without a team until the Jets offered him a chance. "I'm just trying to make the most of every opportunity that I get," Levis stated before his release. He emphasized the importance of working on himself and helping others improve during his time with the team.
Meanwhile, Bailey Zappe, who was retained on the Jets' practice squad earlier this month, has also seen his share of challenges. The 27-year-old quarterback, drafted in the fourth round by the New England Patriots in 2022, has completed 62.1% of his passes for 2,223 yards, along with 12 touchdowns and 14 interceptions in 15 appearances. Zappe's release from the Jets practice squad highlights the team's shifting priorities as they aim to stabilize their quarterback situation.
Geno Smith, who joined the Jets in an off-season trade, is currently the starting quarterback. He has had a promising start to the 2026 season, completing 46 of 65 pass attempts for 462 yards and one touchdown. Rookie Cade Klubnik serves as the backup, rounding out the Jets' current quarterback roster.
Looking ahead, the Jets are expected to invest in a quarterback during the first round of the 2027 NFL Draft, particularly as Smith is a pending free agent. The team holds three first-round picks, including their own, as well as selections from the Indianapolis Colts and the Dallas Cowboys. This strategic positioning indicates a possible shift in the Jets' long-term plans for the quarterback position.
As the Jets prepare for their upcoming game against the Detroit Lions, scheduled for September 25, 2026, the addition of Levis could provide them with more options in the event of injury or underperformance from Smith or Klubnik. Levis will be sitting behind Smith and Klubnik on the depth chart, giving him an opportunity to learn from their experiences and potentially contribute to the team later in the season.
Levis remains optimistic about his prospects in New York, stating, "There are not 32 quarterbacks in this league that are definitely more talented than me. I know that for sure." His confidence may serve him well as he attempts to revitalize his career with the Jets.
With the NFL's competitive nature, the Jets hope that Levis can carve out a role for himself and help the team improve its performance as the season progresses. The coming weeks will be a test for both Levis and the Jets as they navigate the challenges of the season.