Amidst Zach Wilson’s continued presence in the concussion protocol, the New York Jets are set to deploy Trevor Siemian as their starting quarterback in the upcoming game against the Washington Commanders. This marks the third quarterback change for the Jets in the last five weeks.
The uncertainty surrounding Wilson extends to the next week, with a potential absence on Thursday night against the Cleveland Browns due to a quick turnaround. Coach Robert Saleh, while not ruling out Wilson for the Cleveland game, acknowledged the challenge of a Thursday matchup. Saleh mentioned on Friday, “He’s got to clear some hurdles over the weekend. It’s going to be one of those where we’ll see.”
Trevor Siemian’s start against the Washington Commanders makes him the fourth different starting quarterback for the Jets this season, a rarity even for the team. The last time the Jets experienced such quarterback turnover in a single season was in 1989. Saleh, in his third year as head coach, faces his sixth different starting quarterback, contributing to the Jets’ struggles, ranking 32nd in scoring and 31st in total yards over that period, with a record of 16-32.
The Jets currently have four quarterbacks on the 53-man roster, a situation considered unusual. With Wilson and Aaron Rodgers (Achilles) inactive, Brett Rypien, signed on Dec. 5, serves as the backup to Siemian. Rodgers was initially ruled out for the season and was activated from injured reserve to continue practicing with the team.
Siemian, expressing gratitude for the opportunity, recognizes the rarity of his chance to play, especially considering he hasn’t won a start in six years. The Jets, with a 5-9 record, have missed the playoffs for the 13th consecutive season, grappling with quarterback instability due to injuries, benchings, and releases.
Coach Saleh’s decision on Dec. 6 to start Wilson for the remainder of the season was short-lived, as Wilson left the game before halftime in a 30-0 loss to the Miami Dolphins, citing blurred vision and depth-perception issues.
Trevor Siemian, at 31, brings experience with 30 career starts, but he has not secured a victory since 2017. Currently on a six-game losing streak, his last start was for the Chicago Bears in a 31-10 loss to the Jets last season. Despite the challenges, offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett commends Siemian for his preparation and ability to handle the situation.
Siemian has come off the bench twice, with limited success, completing only 19 of 39 passes for 176 yards, with two interceptions and five sacks. In nine drives, he has yet to lead the offense to any points. His previous start for the Jets in 2019 was cut short due to an ankle injury sustained in a hit by Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett.
