Woody Johnson, the New York Jets’ owner, has commented regarding Zach Wilson’s future with the organization, appearing to backtrack on a recent decision. He stated that if a decent trade proposal does not come forward, Wilson may stay with the Jets in 2024.
Wilson was dropped from the team near the close of last season for not performing well. This occurred while starter quarterback Aaron Rodgers was sidelined with a ruptured Achilles.
Johnson was dissatisfied with Wilson, saying at the NFL Honors in Las Vegas that the Jets “need a new backup quarterback” for the 2024 season.
However, Johnson appears to have modified his mind slightly. At the NFL owners meeting, he stated, “If we don’t trade him, we’re going to keep him.”
Johnson believes Wilson would be better off starting over elsewhere rather than serving as Rodgers’ backup quarterback. But he told other teams that Wilson would not be cheap.
“From his standpoint, it’s probably better if he changes faces and gets to a new place and he can wipe the slate clean,” he added. “I believe that would be best for him. Johnson then stated, “Zach is a valuable asset.”
I suggested it would be preferable for him… No, we are not going to just let him go.” When Rodgers left the Green Bay Packers for the Jets, Wilson understood he’d be studying from the four-time MVP as a backup.
Wilson and Rodgers were tight during summer camp and OTAs, with intentions for Wilson to take over once Aaron retired. However, everything changed when Rodgers sustained a season-ending injury in the Jets’ first game of the 2023 season.
With Rodgers out, Wilson was forced to lead the club, which was difficult because all of the off-season planning revolved around Rodgers. The Jets defeated the Buffalo Bills in their opening game, giving fans hope, but by the second part of the season, it was evident they would not make the playoffs.
Last year, the Jets benched Wilson in favor of Tim Boyle and Trevor Siemian, and they planned to release him before the 2024 season. Trading Wilson has been difficult, and Johnson revealed that the rookie quarterback’s NFL debut has been rocky.
