Zach Wilson wants Jets to be aggressive: ‘Screw the third downs’

Zach Wilson made it clear he wants the New York Jets offense to remain aggressive

During his media availability on Thursday, New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson said the offense must get off to better starts to help out the defense.

“I definitely think you ease into a game, but I almost feel like the defense is too, so we need to come out fast as well. They are easing into what we are doing on offense, so we need to be able to come out right from the beginning,” said Wilson.

In addition, Wilson made it clear that he likes the aggressive play-calling mentality that Jets offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett used against the Chiefs, and that he would like for it to continue going forward.

“Screw the third downs, let’s get some first downs on first down and second down, let’s start fast and get some big plays from the beginning,” Wilson said.

My favorite quote from Zach Wilson’s presser today:

“We need to come out right from the beginning, screw the 3rd downs. Let’s go get 1st downs on 1st downs & on 2nd downs. Let’s start fast and get some big plays from the beginning”

This is exactly what we saw from the #Jets… pic.twitter.com/vN46ZJiosd

— 𝙅𝙀𝙏𝙎 𝙈𝙀𝘿𝙄𝘼🛫 (@NYJets_Media) October 6, 2023

Before Week 4, Jets X-Factor’s own Robby Sabo and James Wighaus wrote about how the offense needed to modernize and not be as conservative.

The New York #Jets are playing SCARED football, and until they stop, there's no possibility of improvement from Zach Wilson and the offense. We break down some film right here … 👉https://t.co/OXjrs1sXcR pic.twitter.com/YooxRqdDhX

— Robby Sabo (@RobbySabo) September 29, 2023

No turning back now.

The Jets offense is at the bottom of Mt. Everest and have been staring straight up for the last 2 weeks.

The only way to get going is to take those bold & aggressive steps.

No more blame game – Go all in & live with the results. https://t.co/TMLKx7kefT

— James Wighaus (@BSB_Breakdowns) October 1, 2023

The Jets responded accordingly in their game against Kansas City. They started to throw more frequently on first down, punishing the defense for playing aggressively to stop the run. As a result, Wilson was able to get into a rhythm, build confidence, and ultimately put together his best game as a Jet.

Although this isn't a great throw and won't drop jaws, this 1v1 strike to Allen Lazard is probably the most IMPORTANT play from Zach Wilson against the Chiefs.

Why? Because it showcased his and the #Jets' new-found aggressive MENTALITY. If a 1v1 shot is there, take it. If the D… pic.twitter.com/1LJymf8mm5

— Robby Sabo (@RobbySabo) October 6, 2023

Wilson’s vocal support of an aggressive game plan is a welcoming sign for Jets’ fans, as it shows that the team seemingly recognizes the changes they need to make on offense. As Wilson said, though, there is still more that the offense can do to improve.

The more the Jets offense continues to grow, the better shot the Jets will have to start winning games. To achieve that improvement, it will be vital to stay aggressive and play ahead of the chains. Based on Wilson’s comments, it seems as if the team is prepared to do just that.