Jets to bring in Will Levis on practice squad, source confirms
Titans quarterback Will Levis warms up prior to a preseason game against the Chicago Bears on Aug. 29, 2026, in Nashville, Tenn. Credit: AP/George Walker IV
The Jets made a change in their quarterback room and several other moves on Tuesday.
They are signing former Titans starting quarterback Will Levis to the practice squad. He replaces Bailey Zappe, who the Jets are releasing from the practice team.
The Jets also placed defensive tackle David Onyemata (groin), linebacker and key special teams player Marcelino McCrary-Ball (ankle) and receiver/special teams player Arian Smith (knee) on injured reserve. They will miss a minimum of four games.
Additionally, the Jets signed receiver Malik McClain, linebacker Troy Reader and defensive lineman Jack Heflin to the active roster. They also signed linebacker Jaden Keller, defensive lineman Isaiahh Loudermilk and tight end Cody Hardy to the practice squad.
The Hardy signing could be an indication that tight end Mason Taylor will miss time with a thumb injury he suffered in Sunday’s loss to Green Bay.
Levis was a second-round pick of the Titans in 2023. He started 21 games over his first two seasons and completed 61 percent of his passes (339-for-556) for 3,889 yards and 21 touchdowns. Turnovers have been an issue, though. Levis has thrown 16 interceptions and lost 10 fumbles.
Tennessee was 5-16 in games that Levis started, including 2-10 in 2024. The Titans benched late that season. They drafted quarterback Cam Ward first overall the following year. Levis missed all of the 2025 season after undergoing shoulder surgery. The Titans released Levis in August. He tried out for the Jets earlier this month.
Levis will be the Jets’ No. 3 quarterback behind starter Geno Smith and rookie backup Cade Klubnik.
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.
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