Zach Wilson’s top positional coach is staying with the Jets.
Quarterbacks coach Rob Calabrese was being considered for Kentucky’s offensive coordinator position, but 49ers quarterback coach Rich Scangarello ended up getting the job instead.
This is a huge win for the Jets and especially for Wilson. Robert Saleh already decided not to keep senior offensive assistant Matt Cavanaugh and Wilson’s personal coach John Beck because he wanted Calabrese to play a bigger role in Wilson’s development. Now, Saleh won’t have to worry about another assistant leaving after a few were already were hired for other jobs this offseason.
While Calabrese is still a relatively new name in the coaching ranks, he is one of the most important members of the Jets staff. He and Wilson worked closely during the season while Matt LaFleur ran the offense. Keeping Calabrese maintains continuity for Wilson as he progresses in his second year. Wilson has a lot to work on after an overall mediocre rookie season – including efficiency, decision-making and release time.
Wilson will likely continue to work with Beck during the offseason, but now he and Calabrese can pick up where they left off the 2021 season instead of Wilson having to learn how to work with a new coach. This is crucial for Wilson’s development, especially considering how the Jets watched Sam Darnold struggle after switching coaches after his rookie season.
Consistently is key for a young quarterback, and coaching is a huge part of that. The same goes for having a quality offensive line and as many playmakers as possible. The Jets aren’t quite there yet with the last two, but at least they’ll keep some of the most important coaches around their franchise player heading into a pivotal 2022 season.
