In the wake of the New York Jets’ promotion of Zach Wilson, many NFL fans and analysts alike were puzzled by this decision.
However, one Jets insider filled in the cracks for the majority of NFL media that were not previously known.
Saleh had to elevate Wilson to No. 2. It would've been a terrible look to keep him buried at 3 when it became obvious on Sunday that Flacco is ill-equipped to come off the bench. Even if Wilson isn't totally "fixed," his mobility can be an asset if pressed into action. #Jets
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) December 14, 2022
Wilson was the Jets’ first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, taken third overall.
Even though they do not have the confidence to start Wilson, promoting him to the second string at least saves face within the organization.
They need to justify picking Wilson so early in the draft.
Although coach Robert Saleh did not likely want to make this move, it appears that this move was essential for the good of the organization.
The Current State Of The Jets
The Jets’ record is 7-6, but they sit at the bottom of a difficult division, the AFC East.
While they mathematically have plenty of opportunities to make the playoffs this season, they feel like a team that has thrown in the towel this season.
To end the season, the Jets are scheduled to play the Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, Seattle Seahawks, and Miami Dolphins.
Unfortunately for the Jets, all four of these teams have playoff aspirations as well and will be looking at the Jets as a team with quarterback troubles, and a team that should be an “easy win,” whatever that means in the NFL.
Will Wilson get his chance with the Jets?
It appears that he likely will not get that chance this season, and the Jets organization will need to decide if he is truly going to be a part of their future.
NEXT: Zach Wilson Has Received A Minor Promotion