The New York Jets offense endured another underwhelming performance on Sunday, but a change under center does not appear to be forthcoming. Head coach Robert Saleh confirmed in his post-game press conference that he is committed to Zach Wilson as the team’s starting quarterback.
Saleh said, via NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Wilson is the passer “who gives us the best chance to win.” That remark comes after the team publicly endorsed Wilson as their QB1 following Aaron Rodgers‘ season-ending Achilles injury. The Jets have been in contact with a small number of veteran passers, but no additions have been made at this point.
Wilson went 18-of-36 for 157 yards as the Jets lost 15-10 to the New England Patriots in Week 3. New York’s offense converted just 2-of-14 third downs, adding to the major struggles the unit has endured with the former No. 2 pick at the controls. Wilson’s poor showings led to his benching midway through the 2022 campaign and they were a driving factor in the Jets’ pursuit of an upgrade at the QB position this offseason. Calls for another switch will intensify in the wake of another forgettable outing.
Tension on the Jets sideline was visible during Sunday’s contest and many have pointed to the possibility of the team’s locker room fracturing given the struggles of the offense relative to the defense. SNY’s Connor Hughes speculates a shake-up in the form of offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett losing play-calling duties to Todd Downing could be on the horizon if things continue as they have early in the year.
“I feel like I’m in a really good spot as far as my ability and I don’t feel like I’ve been able to put that on display,” reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson said after the game, via ESPN’s Rich Cimini. “And that’s for multiple reasons. I don’t know what it may be, but I just know I’m ready.”
Indeed, increased production in the passing game will be required for the Jets to rebound from their lackluster offensive start to 2023. Better health and play along the offensive line – a unit which is without left tackle Duane Brown for the foreseeable future – would no doubt go a long way in helping Wilson or a new face under center moving forward. In any case, the status quo can be expected as the Jets prepare to face the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 4.
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