Early Monday, Dianna Russini and Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic reported that the Jets were trending toward going back to Zach Wilson as starting quarterback but Wilson was reluctant to return to the role.
Head coach Robert Saleh shot down those reports during his media availability Monday, saying he had met with Wilson — with Wilson coming to him — just before his press conference. Saleh said Wilson wanted the football before adding that he hadn’t named a starter yet for Week 14 against the Houston Texans.
“Well, let’s be clear. If he was reluctant to play, guys, he wouldn’t be here,” Saleh said. “I actually coincidentally just got done speaking with him. He came in about a half-hour ago, and we had a really good conversation.
“The young man wants the ball. He wants to start. He believes he’s the best quarterback in the room and best quarterback for this team, and the guy who gives us the best chance to win. And I’ll tell you guys the same thing I told him. I appreciate it. I appreciate the fact that he wants to play. I’m just not there yet.”
The Jets are back to needing to name a starter at quarterback after Tim Boyle was benched in favor of Trevor Siemian during the 13-8 loss Sunday to the Atlanta Falcons. Saleh said after the game that he didn’t know who would start against the Texans but did say Wilson is always an option.
Wilson was benched during the 32-6 loss to the Buffalo Bills in Week 11, replaced by Boyle. The argument can be made that Wilson was frustrated enough from the multiple benchings, and the demotion thanks to New York’s trade for Aaron Rodgers, that he simply didn’t want to risk himself. Saleh is giving the impression that is not the case and Wilson absolutely wants to be on the field.
It makes sense. Wilson, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 draft, may feel this is his last chance to salvage his career following a failed stint in New York. Getting back in the lineup now gives him five more games to put some positive film together, particularly with the Jets needing to make a decision on his fifth-year option this offseason. Chances are the Jets will decline the option, but a good showing at least gives Wilson a chance to extend his career into 2024 and beyond.
