REPORT: New York Jets Informed Zach Wilson of Trade Plans, Then Unexpectedly Reinstated Him as the Starting Quarterback
The 2023 New York Jets' quarterback situation has been an unmitigated disaster.
Starting with Aaron Rodgers' torn Achilles during the very first offensive drive in week one, the situation under center for Gang Green has been nothing short of calamitous. There was optimism that 2021 second-overall pick Zach Wilson would step up in his third season under the guidance of A-Rod, but that hope was misplaced.
Speculation began to circulate that Wilson's reluctance to return to the Jets' lineup stemmed from concerns about injury risks behind the team's abysmal offensive line. However, recent reports have shed light on the reasons behind his hesitation.
According to a fresh report from Deseret News, Jets head coach Robert Saleh had communicated to Wilson that he would be traded in the offseason following his latest benching.
Insiders with knowledge of the situation confirmed to Deseret News that the Jets had informed Zach Wilson of their plans to trade him after the season. This mutual understanding between Wilson and coach Robert Saleh emerged after Wilson's benching and before the team's decision to reinstall him as the starting quarterback.
If these reports hold true, it clarifies why Wilson might have been less than enthusiastic about reclaiming the starting role in New York, given that the organization had already signaled its readiness to move on from him.
Despite the circumstances, Wilson is set to return as the starting quarterback for today's game against the Houston Texans. With a 4-8 record and only five games left in the season, the Jets' playoff aspirations have been extinguished. Nevertheless, by delivering strong performances in the remaining matches, Wilson may have the opportunity to elevate his trade value and demonstrate to the other 31 NFL teams that he merits a second chance in a new environment.
