The New York Jets have made a move to address their quarterback situation by signing veteran free agent Trevor Siemian to their practice squad. Siemian, who was released by the Cincinnati Bengals in the preseason, joins Zach Wilson and Tim Boyle in the Jets’ quarterback room. This signing comes in response to the recent struggles of rookie quarterback Wilson, who will still start Sunday night against the Kansas City Chiefs, according to coach Robert Saleh. However, Siemian provides the Jets with a potential option if Wilson continues to struggle, given his starting experience.
In an interesting turn of events, former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick wrote a letter to Jets general manager Joe Douglas, dated September 21. Rapper J Cole shared the letter on his Instagram account, revealing that Kaepernick had asked for the Jets to consider signing him to the practice squad. Cole emphasized the importance of everyone knowing the truth about Kaepernick’s work ethic and desire to play football. Although Kaepernick hasn’t played in the NFL since 2016 due to his protests against racial inequality during the national anthem, he has remained determined to return to the game.
The New York Jets find themselves in a difficult position after losing Aaron Rodgers to an Achilles tear on the fourth play of the season. While Wilson showed promise in leading the Jets to an overtime victory over the Buffalo Bills, the offense has struggled to find consistency under his leadership. In nearly three full games with Wilson at quarterback, the Jets have only managed to score three touchdowns. The addition of Siemian to the practice squad provides a potential alternative if Wilson’s struggles persist.
Trevor Siemian, with a career record of 13-17, brings a mix of experience and challenges to the Jets. As the Denver Broncos’ full-time starter in 2016 and 2017, Siemian showed promise but has since been relegated to backup duties. He has not won a start since 2017, and his most recent six starts have all ended in defeat. Siemian’s last start for the Jets came in 2019, where he suffered a season-ending ankle injury. In his most recent performance against the Jets, while playing for the Chicago Bears, Siemian struggled in a 31-10 loss. However, his overall career statistics show potential, with 42 touchdowns and 28 interceptions.
In the wake of Rodgers’ injury, the Jets have been linked to other available quarterbacks such as Carson Wentz, Matt Ryan, and Chad Henne. It was reported that the Jets expressed interest in Henne, who previously played under offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett in Jacksonville. However, Henne declined the opportunity to join the Jets. Additionally, the Jets reportedly rejected overtures from Wentz and Ryan, indicating their belief in the potential of their current quarterback roster.
The New York Jets’ signing of Trevor Siemian to their practice squad adds another layer of depth and experience to their quarterback room. With Zach Wilson struggling in his early NFL career, Siemian presents a viable option if Wilson’s struggles continue. While Siemian’s recent performances have been less than stellar, his career record and statistics show potential for improvement. As the Jets continue to navigate their quarterback situation, the addition of Siemian brings both competition and options for the team moving forward.