The New York Jets find themselves embroiled in a quarterback controversy, but unlike the typical kind, this one revolves around the young quarterback Zach Wilson and whether he wants his old starting job back. As the Jets prepare for their upcoming game against the Houston Texans, coach Robert Saleh faces the difficult task of choosing a starter among Wilson, Tim Boyle, and Trevor Siemian. None of them have performed exceptionally well since Aaron Rodgers’ Achilles tendon injury. Adding to the complexity of the decision, The Athletic reported that the team is leaning towards starting Wilson, but it seems that Wilson himself may be reluctant to play due to concerns about potential injury risks. However, Saleh has denied those claims, stating that Wilson approached him expressing his desire to start. The situation brings an unusual twist to a team that has long dealt with quarterback instability.
The Jets’ season was initially built around Aaron Rodgers, but his injury in Week 1 forced them to turn to Zach Wilson as the starting quarterback. However, after nine starts, Wilson was benched in favor of Tim Boyle, who in turn was replaced by Trevor Siemian during their most recent loss to the Atlanta Falcons. The team’s recent struggles, with five consecutive losses and only 45 points scored during the skid, have further complicated the decision-making process for Saleh. While it is likely that Saleh will eventually turn back to Wilson, the delay in making the decision raises some curiosity. When Saleh initially moved from Wilson to Boyle, the announcement was made on a Monday. It appears that Saleh wants to gauge the locker room atmosphere before promoting a player who may be viewed as apprehensive about reclaiming the starting role.
Adding fuel to the fire, reports surfaced that Wilson may have made comments to a teammate expressing his reluctance to return to the lineup. Saleh acknowledged the possibility of such comments but emphasized that he makes judgments based on direct conversations with players. Wilson’s career so far has been marked by three benchings, and there is a growing belief that he may be released after this season. With one year remaining on his four-year, $35 million contract, including $5.5 million fully guaranteed in 2024, Wilson’s performance and potential injury risks could significantly impact his future value.
Saleh admitted that there may be some concerns about Wilson’s mental state after being benched multiple times. The coach believes that Wilson lost confidence in himself last year but has shown a clear determination to be on the field this year, as evidenced by his approach to Saleh expressing his desire to start. Publicly, Wilson has accepted his latest demotion without complaint, though Saleh mentioned that he has been “very upset” about not playing. Despite the circumstances, Wilson has continued to work hard and pursue his goal of becoming the best quarterback he can be, regardless of his current role within the team.
Under Saleh’s tenure, the Jets have already played four different quarterbacks for the second consecutive year. If Siemian gets the starting nod, it would mark the first time since 1989 that the Jets have started four quarterbacks in a single season. Wilson has only recorded six touchdown passes in ten games, but he has shown potential by moving the offense and throwing for 1,944 yards. However, the return of Aaron Rodgers remains uncertain. While there is a possibility that he could return to the field, especially considering his recent practice participation, it is highly unlikely, given the team’s diminishing chances of making the playoffs. Saleh chose not to provide any definitive answers, echoing Rodgers’ statement that anything is possible but cautioning against holding one’s breath in anticipation.
The New York Jets find themselves entangled in an atypical quarterback controversy, as Zach Wilson’s reluctance to play further complicates the team’s decision-making process. Saleh and his coaching staff must carefully consider the implications of starting Wilson while also evaluating the overall atmosphere within the team. Wilson’s up-and-down performance, coupled with the risk of potential injury, adds another layer of complexity. As the Jets navigate through this challenging situation, the future of their quarterback position, and ultimately the team’s success, hang in the balance.
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