The New York Jets have set their captains for the 2026 season.
Unlike last year, wide receiver Garrett Wilson didn’t receive captain honors, which are voted on by his teammates.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Wilson was asked whether he was “upset” to be omitted from the captains list this season.
“I don’t know if upset is the word,” he responded. “It’s more like, man, we’ve got a collection of guys that all warrant that label. I’m always going to be there to play my role to the best of my ability.”
Gang Green’s six captain patches went to the following players:
- QB Geno Smith
- OL Joe Tippmann
- S Minkah Fitzpatrick
- LB Demario Davis
- DT Harrison Phillips
- WR/PR/KR Isaiah Williams
As Wilson alluded to, several new veterans on the team warrant the label. Minkah Fitzpatrick, Geno Smith, and Demario Davis were all offseason additions for New York, while Harrison Phillips was acquired just ahead of the 2025 season.
Isaiah Williams, meanwhile, was picked up after the 2025 season had already kicked off. As a result, Joe Tippmann is the Jets’ only team captain this year who has been with the organization for more than one season.
Overall, there’s no need to panic that Wilson wasn’t named a captain or to indicate that he is on bad terms in the locker room. Veterans typically earn these badges along with the QB, explaining Smith, Fitzpatrick, Davis, and Phillips.
Williams was the Jets’ team MVP last season, while Tippmann represents the organization’s offensive line.
Players can still be leaders without a patch on their jersey.
