Garrett Wilson Making the Most of His Opportunities

Imagine what New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson’s stats would be if they’d get him the ball more. 

Wilson has been the subject of an ongoing controversy surrounding the Jets offense and coordinator Frank Reich. There are several games where Wilson had as many targets as the tight ends, including the just-concluded New England game.

Considering that the Jets are struggling to score, that seems a gross mistake on the part of the Jets. 

But Wilson is making the most of his opportunities, according to the stats sheet. Over the first six games of this season, he leads the AFC in receptions, has a great catch rate, and appears headed for his best season yet in receptions and yards.  

“They’ve got it covered,” Wilson said to NewYorkJets.com after Wednesday’s practice. “Coming to seek me out, whatever may be, those conversations don’t need to be made. They’re doing everything in their power to get the looks we need to get for me, having a sniper mentality, when I have a chance to make a play that will have an impact on a game. I would say they’re on top of it, man. It’s not like I’m trying to convince ’em. They see it that way, too.”

So far, Wilson has 35 catches to lead the AFC. He is duplicating the rate he had in 2024, and is the only Jets receiver besides Al Toon in 1986 to have led the conference in the first six games.  

The catches have come on 48 targets for a 72.9% catch rate that is sixth among NFL wideouts. Along with his 418 yards, he’s on pace for 99 catches (he had 101 in ’24) and 1,184 yards. Wilson’s receiver rating is 120.0.

“We always want to get Garrett the ball. He’s a great player, a big part of our offense, a key to our offense,” quarterback Geno Smith said earlier this week. “There’s only one football out there. I thought Omar Cooper Jr. did a great job, he was having a great game, I thought Mason Taylor was having a great game, and Garrett as well. So, whenever I’m making my reads and we get opportunities to get him the ball, he’s definitely a big part of that.”

Wilson said it’s all about being disruptive. 

“That’s the mentality we all have as competitors, every guy in the room,” he said. “all of us have been productive when called upon. So, you have this confidence, when you’re called upon again, of showing everybody why you’re at this moment, why you’re at this point.”

Wilson’s good year may get even better soon. No. 2 receiver Adonai Mitchell is back at practice, and rookie Omar Cooper Jr. has also returned from injury. Both would provide a threat that will allow Wilson more freedom to roam.