Quarterback Zach Wilson’s tenure with the New York Jets concluded with the end of his third season, and indications from the team suggest a doubtful continuation into a fourth. The Jets disclosed on Wednesday that the 2021 No. 2 overall pick remains in the concussion protocol, forcing him to sit out his third consecutive game, which happens to be the season finale against the New England Patriots. Once again, Trevor Siemian is set to take on the starting role.
While Wilson is under contract for the 2024 season, the Jets seem prepared to seek a new backup for Aaron Rodgers in the upcoming season. Head Coach Robert Saleh expressed optimism about Wilson’s potential long-term NFL career but remained noncommittal when questioned about the quarterback’s future with the Jets, stating, “We’ll see. It’s all things that we’re going to have to talk about once the season’s over, but whether it’s here or somewhere else, I believe he’s going to have a hell of a career.”
Initially seen as the solution to the Jets’ longstanding quarterback issues, Wilson struggled in his two seasons as the starter and was replaced last offseason by Rodgers. The original plan was for Wilson to learn alongside Rodgers, creating a succession strategy. However, circumstances changed dramatically in the first game of the season when Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles injury, prompting Wilson’s unexpected entry. Despite facing challenges, Saleh acknowledged Wilson’s improvements and attributed the difficulties to an unfortunate series of events.
The Jets, with a 6-10 record, may explore trading Wilson to potentially recoup a late-round draft pick. Wilson is set to earn a guaranteed $5.5 million in salary and bonuses in 2024, the final year of his rookie contract. While the Jets have until early May to decide on exercising his fifth-year option for 2025, they are expected to decline it.
Summarizing Wilson’s season, Saleh highlighted his resilience and commitment, recognizing both improvements and factors beyond his control. Wilson’s three seasons with the Jets have been marked by turbulence, including being named the rookie starter, subsequent benchings, and the acquisition of Rodgers. In the 2023 season, Wilson posted a 4-7 record as the starter with eight touchdowns, seven interceptions, and a 30.4 Total QBR, ranking 30th among qualified passers.
Wilson’s last full game showcased his best performance, passing for 301 yards and two touchdowns in a decisive 30-6 victory over the Houston Texans on December 12. However, the following week, facing the Miami Dolphins, Wilson left the game in the first half due to a concussion and hasn’t played since. In interviews, Wilson acknowledged that his career hasn’t unfolded as anticipated.
Trevor Siemian, a veteran in the league since 2015, expressed confidence in Wilson’s physical abilities, stating, “He’s got all the traits that you want to be good for a long time – and then some. He’s got some of that extra stuff that a lot of guys don’t have.”
