Russell Wilson is mulling a contract offer from the New York Jets, according to the New York Post. Gang Green received the blessing of starting quarterback Geno Smith and is in the midst of potentially adding a Super Bowl-winning backup.

So, why is he not yet here? What’s the holdup?

The backdrop

By the midway point of the 2026 season, Wilson will be 38 years old. He’s played 14 seasons in the NFL with 10 Pro Bowl appearances and a Super Bowl title on his resume.

There isn’t much more success left for him to acquire at this point in his career.

Wilson has a famous wife, Ciara, and millions of dollars in his bank account. He also has a potential broadcasting offer should he choose to retire.

To the team’s credit, though, it appears that the Jets left a good impression with the Pro Bowl signal-caller.

“It was great,” Wilson said told the Post. “They offered me, and I’m trying to figure out what the next best thing is for me to do. I still know I can play ball at a high level, but I also have an opportunity to do TV (analysis), so we’ll see what happens.”

Leverage play?

Wilson’s decision is pretty straightforward: Retire and spend the rest of his life with his wife and kids, or play a 15th season and keep trying to extend his career.

Then again, perhaps it’s a bit more convoluted.

Earlier this month, The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand reported that Wilson is in “deep discussions” with CBS to become part of its NFL coverage.

In many ways, it makes sense. No matter what anybody thinks of Wilson’s ability to produce at 37 years of age, the great majority would nod at the idea that he’s a readymade talking head.

Naturally, one of the initial reactions upon hearing this news is to leverage. The older Jets fan remembers the entire Kirk Cousins market situation and how it appeared that his camp used the then-Mike Maccagnan-led Jets as leverage to squeeze more money out of the Minnesota Vikings.

Therefore, cynicism is only natural. Yet, how strong is the urge to assist the team’s freshly minted starting quarterback?

At the end of the day

If Geno wants Russ, why not make it happen?

Well, the incremental noise that comes with Russ is just one of many cited reasons. Oftentimes, through little fault of his own, electricity follows Wilson.

Head coach Aaron Glenn proclaimed his wish for the Jets to avoid the standard noise that has been commonplace in Northern New Jersey. While Wilson has never been accused of being a bad teammate, organic noise will surely follow — at least to some degree.

Should he choose to retire, it’s important to remember that it won’t be an indictment of the Jets or their offensive plan. It just means Wilson believes he’s done enough in his career as a champion.

Or, it means he feels it’s the right time to plant his flag as an NFL media talking head.

Given his current situation, that’s hard to argue with, especially given his personality and age.