From head coach Robert Saleh and the Jets’ star-studded defense, to some of their talented receivers, Gang Green seems prepared to finally pull the plug on the No. 2 overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft — Zach Wilson.
And I, for one, don’t blame anyone in New York for perhaps wanting to cut their losses on a quarterback who doesn’t even look like he belongs as a backup at the highest level of football.
Right now, through seven games, Wilson is 31st in passing yards (1,279 yards). He’s created four (4!) total touchdowns. On an Expected Points Added (EPA) and Completion Percentage Over Expected (CPOE) composite basis, the only starting quarterback who’s done less for his offense in 2022 is the Carolina Panthers’ Baker Mayfield — another former failed top QB pick. That is, how do I put this in a friendly way … not the kind of bad company you want to keep!
Naturally, as the Jets have a talented team ready to shine under the lights just about everywhere else aside from quarterback, Saleh’s revealing comments about Wilson’s job being up in the air opened the door. They left it cracked open for the near future, potentially even 2023, where they give up on their leader under center (or lack thereof) — clearly not capable of playing in the NFL — so they can still maximize a great roster.
As they consider benching Wilson now (UPDATE: They did!), let’s look at some of the Jets’ best potential quarterback options heading into next season and break down who would fare far better throwing passes while wearing their green helmet.