Zach Wilson Steps Up in Wake of Aaron Rodgers Injury, Proving His Worth

Zach Wilson Gets Another Chance After Aaron Rodgers Injury

By Luke Easterling | Published on Sep 11, 2023 9:46 PM EDT

New York Jets

A collective hush fell upon the crowd at MetLife Stadium on Monday night as New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers had to be helped off the field. Rodgers went down awkwardly after taking a sack just a few snaps into his regular-season debut for the Jets, and eventually headed to the locker room on a cart.

Initial X-rays were negative on what was officially called an ankle injury by the team, but Rodgers was still quickly ruled out for the rest of Monday night’s game against the Buffalo Bills.

Rodgers’ absence gave way to Zach Wilson, the No. 2 overall pick in the NFL Draft just two years ago, who had been relegated to backup duty following the arrival of the longtime veteran via trade from the Green Bay Packers.

It wasn’t long ago that the Jets were hoping Wilson would eventually become the star quarterback who could lead them back to the Super Bowl. After an impressive 2020 season at BYU, and an even more impressive series of predraft workouts, the Jets made Wilson their top pick in 2021, just one spot after Trevor Lawrence went to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Wilson’s first two seasons with the Jets were marred by turnovers and inconsistency, to the point where he was eventually benched and even demoted to the third string behind Mike White and Joe Flacco.

Now, Wilson finds himself thrust back into the spotlight under the worst of circumstances for Jets fans, as they watched their Super Bowl hopes hobble off the field wearing the No. 8 jersey.

Can Wilson Deliver on Expectations?

With a solid roster around him on both sides of the ball, the question now is whether Zach Wilson can finally deliver on the high expectations that come with his draft status.

Throughout his college career, Wilson displayed moments of brilliance that led scouts and analysts to believe he had the potential to be a franchise quarterback. However, his performances in his first two seasons with the Jets were far from consistent.

Turnovers and poor decision-making plagued Wilson, as he struggled to adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL. The lack of veteran leadership and playmakers on the offensive side of the ball didn’t help his development either.

But now, with another opportunity to prove himself as the Jets’ starting quarterback, Wilson must seize the moment. He has the chance to learn from the mistakes of the past and showcase the growth and maturity necessary to lead a team to success.

It’s important to remember that Wilson is still a young player with immense potential. He has the arm talent, athleticism, and football IQ to be successful in this league. However, he needs to demonstrate better decision-making and take care of the football.

The Importance of Surrounding Talent

While the Jets’ success doesn’t solely rest on the shoulders of Zach Wilson, he will play a crucial role in the team’s performance. However, it is equally important that the organization continues to build around him with the right supporting cast.

A solid offensive line that can protect Wilson and give him time in the pocket is essential. The Jets must also provide him with reliable targets in the receiving corps and a reliable running game to take some pressure off his shoulders.

On the defensive side of the ball, a strong unit will help provide Wilson with better field position and more opportunities to put points on the board.

Ultimately, Wilson’s success will depend on a combination of factors, including his own performance, coaching, and the support he receives from his teammates. It will take a collaborative effort to help him reach his full potential.

Final Thoughts

The injury to Aaron Rodgers has provided Zach Wilson with another chance to prove himself as the franchise quarterback for the New York Jets. How he responds to this opportunity will shape his future and the team’s success.

It’s important to temper expectations and give Wilson time to grow and develop. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will the Jets’ return to greatness. Patience and understanding are key in this process.

With the right support and guidance, Zach Wilson has the potential to be the quarterback the Jets have been longing for. It’s now up to him to seize the moment and make the most of this opportunity.

Only time will tell if he can rise to the occasion and lead the Jets to new heights on the field.