NFL Rumors: New York Jets Could Start Quarterback Zach Wilson Week 1

New York Jets Head Coach Robert Saleh shared some good news Sunday. Per NFL Insider Ian Rapoport, quarterback Zach Wilson practiced today, and should his injured knee respond well, he could be in line to start in the team's season opener:

#Jets coach Robert Saleh told reporters that QB Zach Wilson, dealing with a bone bruise and meniscus tear, had a workout today and is still potentially in play to start Sunday. They'll make an announcement on Wednesday.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 5, 2022

Wilson's meniscus tear and bone bruise came as a result of a scramble in the team's first preseason game. Up until today, backup Joe Flacco had been slated to start in his place for at least the first week of the season, setting up a potential revenge game against the Baltimore Ravens, Flacco's former team.

The Jets took Wilson second overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, but the former BYU quarterback has done little to reward their faith so far in his career. Wilson won a meagre three of his 13 starts and piled up negative plays in his rookie season, throwing an interception on 2.9% of his passes and taking a sack on 10.3% of his dropbacks, both well below the league averages of 2.4% and 6.2%. He also struggled in his limited preseason snaps this year, completing three of his five passes for 23 yards and an interception.

Wilson came into the league with rare arm talent, drawing Aaron Rodgers comparisons for his ability to extend plays and deliver off-platform throws for big gains. But he needs to learn to protect himself and his team with more disciplined play. Otherwise, he threatens to go the way of another predraft comparison: Johnny Manziel.