When the Jets traded for Aaron Rodgers in a blockbuster deal back in April, it was clear Zach Wilson wouldn’t be starting for the foreseeable future. The former first-round pick’s career has started in rocky fashion, and now he’ll have to wait for another chance to lead the franchise—which has led to plenty of debate and speculation from those on the outside looking in.
But everything seen from the two quarterbacks leading up to the 2023 regular season seemingly has been positive and supportive, and it got even better during Thursday’s Hall of Fame Game when HBO’s Hard Knocks caught a wholesome moment between the two.
That 57-yard dime from @ZachWilson in the HOF game? That was an @AaronRodgers12 play call. 👀#HardKnocks with the @nyjets premieres tomorrow 10pm ET on @streamonmax pic.twitter.com/QSlUuq7iEw
— NFL (@NFL) August 7, 2023
It was second-and-7 at New York’s 7-yard line with Wilson under center and Rodgers wearing the headset.
“Throw it up to Malik [Taylor],” Rodgers said. “Touchdown.”
Sure enough, Wilson listened and threw a bomb to Taylor for a 57-yard gain down the left sideline. Rodgers was absolutely thrilled for his teammates’ big play. Wilson threw just five passes in his limited time on the field, and the Jets lost to the Browns, 21–16. He was all smiles, though, when talking to reporters afterward.
“Great call by Aaron Rodgers,” Wilson said. “Had to give him a little shout-out there.”
