New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson addressed the rumors about his desire to play
It’s the return of the Zach, once again!
That statement is not just a reference to a great song, though. After being benched for the past two weeks, New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh announced he is turning back to Zach Wilson.
Wilson, in light of the crazy situation surrounding him, had an opportunity to speak to reporters on Wednesday afternoon.
The quarterback spoke about getting another opportunity to play, even after being demoted earlier in the season.
“I was excited. I think any opportunity that you get in this League is a good one. I think more than anything, I love and care for these guys, especially this year. For some reason, it has been challenging; I think everyone has felt that, but I am extremely excited to get back on the field with these guys,” said Wilson.
The former BYU product also mentioned that he “will have more fun” playing quarterback with his current opportunity.
When asked about the report that he was “reluctant” to play, Wilson immediately denied it.
“Absolutely not. I love the guys in this locker room and would do anything. I think any time you have an opportunity to step onto this field, you need to take advantage of it.”
The quarterback also explained immediate feelings when he heard the report.
“I think I was frustrated, obviously, but at the same time, this New York media, you understand it is part of it. I can’t say it has been the first time we have dealt with it as a team and as a unit. It is definitely not a distraction for us going forward,” said Wilson.
“I think it is something that we can put behind us, and I think that the locker room is in a good spot. Everyone just wants to be good, and everyone wants to be great and focus on this next week and see how we can get some wins here.”
Wilson expanded on this aspect, saying he cannot choose what happens in New York but that “the focus is just going out there and playing the best I can.”
Overall, Wilson’s answers showed a quarterback ready to step back up into a starting role. Whether he was hesitant to start again or not is meaningless at this point, as Wilson is the Jets’ starter and will be in that role for the rest of the season.
Based on his prior performances, the on-field product may not be much better for the Jets’ offense going forward. Touchdowns were not being scored with Wilson at the helm, and there are still significant issues with the Jets’ offense beyond the quarterback, such as the play calling and lack of weapons.
Yet, Wilson has a chance to prove that he can stick in the NFL over these last five games. It remains a long shot at this point, but after all that has happened in the Jets’ crazy 2023 season, Wilson has another chance to prove the doubters wrong.
