'I still believe': Zach Wilson impressing at OTAs as Jets' second-string QB

Publish date: 2024-05-01

Zach Wilson has reached a crossroads in his young NFL career. After struggling through two seasons as the New York Jets' starting quarterback, the franchise moved in another direction this spring, acquiring Aaron Rodgers in a trade with the Green Bay Packers.

But rather than deal Wilson to another quarterback-needy team, the Jets have elected to hang onto the former second overall pick -- and his low salary -- in hopes that he can watch and learn under future Hall of Famer Rodgers. And so far, the 23-year-old is catching the eye during New York's Organizaed Team Activities (OTAs).

Wilson impressing with strength, accuracy

Although Wilson's chances may be few and far between in 2023, the former BYU standout is making the most of summer workouts in case he is needed in the season ahead.

Last week, Wilson uncorked a low throw to 2022 Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson, which the former Ohio State Buckeye snared with his fingertips.

Wilson struggled to make throws like this last season, a campaign that saw him throw only six touchdowns to seven interceptions while completing less than 55 percent of his passes.

Wilson learning from Rodgers?

The Jets' two quarterbacks have been spotted side-by-side during preseason workouts, and it seems for the time being that Wilson is happy to learn from a signal-caller of Rodgers' caliber.

New York's quarterback job could be Wilson's again as soon as 2025, as Rodgers can become a free agent after next season. However, that can be an eternity in the NFL. It remains to be seen if Wilson will stay patient, assuming his next opportunity in the Big Apple does not arrive for another couple seasons.

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