Throughout his career, New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson hasn’t consistently played in a position room that has helped draw defenses’ attention away from him.
Oftentimes, opposing defenses’ game plans against the Jets are pretty simple: stop No. 5 (previously No. 17) at all costs.
That could change this year. After selecting Omar Cooper Jr. in the first round, coupled with Adonai Mitchell, who is entering his first full season with the Jets and has flashed his elite separation ability, opposing defenses could have more to worry about when facing Gang Green than in years past.
Speaking to the media, Aaron Glenn emphasized how much Cooper Jr., Mitchell and the Jets’ pass catchers this season can potentially open up opportunities for Wilson.
“Well, it really opens us up to any time you want to try to double Garrett. We have other, I would say high-level players that can go out there and make plays, and you just named two of them [Adonai Mitchell, Omar Cooper Jr.] that I think are going to do a good job for us this year,” he said.
In addition to the potential of Mitchell and Cooper Jr., the team’s tight end room could also be an asset in drawing attention away from Wilson. Mason Taylor could be in for a breakout year after finishing his rookie season with the second-highest contested catch rate among qualified tight ends (78.6%).
Rookie first-round pick Kenyon Sadiq is also expected to have a key role right away, where he could emerge as an all-around weapon for the team if he tightens up his route-running ability and cuts down on drops.
Also, at his peak, Geno Smith would be far and away the best quarterback Wilson has played with since being drafted in 2022.
Overall, 2026 is shaping up to be a potential career year for Wilson.
