Following a challenging stint with the New York Jets, Zach Wilson is seeking a fresh beginning in 2024.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Wilson has begun exploring potential trade options, with the Jets agreeing to assess his market value.
As reported by ESPN’s Rich Cimini on Tuesday, the Jets are anticipated to trade Wilson “in the coming weeks” as they aim to secure an upgrade to backup Aaron Rodgers.
Should a trade materialize, Cimini noted that the consensus among league sources is that the Jets could expect to receive a sixth- or seventh-round draft pick in return for Wilson.
Both Wilson and the Jets have a vested interest in moving on this offseason. Wilson was initially slated for a backup role in 2023 with the arrival of Aaron Rodgers.
However, when Rodgers suffered an injury during the Jets’ first offensive possession of their Week 1 game against the Buffalo Bills, Wilson was thrust back into action.
Despite achieving a career-high 60.1 completion percentage and tallying more touchdowns (eight) than interceptions (seven) for the first time, the offense struggled under his leadership throughout the season.
The team ranked 29th in points (15.8) and 31st in yards per game (268.6) during Wilson’s tenure as the primary starting quarterback. Wilson was benched following a 32-6 loss to the Bills on Nov. 19.
Although Tim Boyle started the subsequent two games, he was replaced by Trevor Siemian during the second half of a Week 13 loss to the Atlanta Falcons.
Reports from The Athletic’s Zack Rosenblatt, Dianna Russini, and Jeff Howe indicated that Wilson was “hesitant” to reclaim the starting role when the Jets were deliberating their quarterback situation after the aforementioned game.
However, Wilson denied any reluctance to resume his starting position. He did start the following two games before sustaining an injury during the Black Friday matchup against the Miami Dolphins, prematurely ending his season.
Since being drafted with the No. 3 overall pick, Wilson has accumulated 6,293 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and 25 interceptions across 34 games in three seasons. He holds a 12-21 record in 33 starts.
The upcoming season marks the final guaranteed year of Wilson’s rookie contract, with a $1.06 million base salary awaiting him.
