New York Jets fans have had an interesting week. Starting Quarterback Zach Wilson was benched by the team after a poor performance against the New England Patriots. Wilson had one of the worst performances of his young career and the Jet’s offense didn’t score a touchdown. Wilson completed nine passes and recorded 77 passing yards. Sunday’s loss was disappointing because the Jets had a chance to win the game. The Jet’s defense didn’t allow a touchdown and Wilson hurt his team with an ugly performance. Zach Wilson is experiencing what life is like in the NFL and his future as a starter is up in the air.
Zach Wilson has had an interesting career. Insight is needed into how Wilson’s career has played out and what has transpired in Wilson’s career.
Zach Wilson’s Struggles
Former #Jet and Pro Bowl WR Laveranues Coles weighs in on Gang Green’s decision to bench Zach Wilson ahead of Sunday’s game ⚖️👀#TakeFlight pic.twitter.com/WOuQRYXWaV
— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) November 23, 2022
Zach Wilson has struggled significantly this season. Wilson has regressed and hasn’t displayed the promise he showed during his rookie campaign. Wilson has passed for 1,279 yards, thrown four touchdowns, and five interceptions this season. Wilson has missed open throws and shown poor mechanics. These factors have resulted in Wilson being benched. During a post-game interview Jets Head Coach Robert Saleh said, “His fundamentals are out of wack.” Saleh also said Wilson needs time to reset.
If I was that defense and I heard that, I would be pissed. Zach Wilson has not proven to be a franchise QB. And this interview shows he won’t own up to his mistakes. Yeah, he’s a young QB but if you haven’t gotten over the hump in year 2, that’s as far as you’re gonna go https://t.co/D86PE74H2Z
— andspam (@andresr_23c) November 21, 2022
Zach Wilson’s maturity has also been questioned. After the 10-3 loss against New England Wilson was asked if he let his defense down and Wilson said no. Fans, coaches, and teammates weren’t happy with Wilson’s response. Wilson recently apologized to his teammates and has learned from the experience. NFL quarterbacks have to own up to their mistakes and take the blame after losing games.
What Jet’s Fans Thought They Were Getting From Zach Wilson
"Zach Wilson is the second-best QB in the draft. The Jets are making the right move taking him.
His arm talent is elite. He has all the throws – in the pocket, power, touch, on the move running right or left. Physically, he is a step up from Sam Darnold."
– @PhilSimmsQB pic.twitter.com/64OpCwyVpG— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) April 30, 2021
There was an abundance of excitement after the Jets drafted Wilson. Fans, coaches, and sports reporters were blown away by Wilson’s college tape. Zach Wilson also impressed at his pro day in 2021. The Jets believed they found their franchise quarterback. New York also believed Wilson would help them win games.
Wilson was expected to take the infamous second-year jump like Josh Allen. General Manager Joe Douglas drafted Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall to help Zach Wilson and the offense. However, the Jet’s offense currently ranks 28th in the NFL. Mike Lefleur’s offense has been inconsistent and has stalled with Zach Wilson under center.
Bottom Line
The NFL is a tough league. It’s an even tougher league for a young quarterback. Quarterbacks are seen as the face of the franchise and must act accordingly. Wilson is experiencing growing pains and finding his way. Hopefully, Wilson will continue to improve and leave his shortcomings in the past.
Who Takes Over Now?
Mike White will start against the Chicago Bears on Sunday. White played a couple of games last season and played well at times.
