With the No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, the New York Jets selected quarterback Zach Wilson. Unfortunately for both sides, nothing went according to plan during their partnership. As a result, he was traded to the Denver Broncos this offseason.
Zach Wilson was replaced as the team’s starting quarterback during the 2023 offseason when they acquired Aaron Rodgers. But, that demotion lasted four plays into the regular season, as Rodgers’ injury thrust him back into the starting role.
It was a massive miscalculation by the Jets. Having Zach Wilson as the backup quarterback led to the team’s chances of competing being torpedoed again, as the entire offensive game plan was built around Rodgers. With him sidelined, the results were disastrous again.
It was an inevitability that the Jets would part ways with Wilson this offseason. It ended up being the Broncos who took a flier on him just ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft. Recently, he spoke about being traded away from the team that drafted him.
“Obviously, there’s bittersweet moments in everything,” Wilson said to the Denver media. “I was grateful for my experiences there and the guys. I miss the guys out there and everything too. But at the same time, a fresh start is good. I’m excited to attack a new challenge.” (H/T Heavy)
Zach Wilson didn’t get close to living up to expectations as a No. 2 pick. As a result, veteran Tyrod Taylor finally replaced him on the depth chart this season. After he was traded, the Jets selected Jordan Travis as their new developmental quarterback.
With the Broncos he has a clean slate and the chance to re-establish himself in the NFL. He will be competing against the team’s 2024 first-round pick, Bo Nix out of Oregon, and Jarrett Stidham for the starting job.
Head coach Sean Payton said they are all being given a chance to earn the job, as the best performer this offseason will be the starter in an open competition. Nix likely has a leg up, but Zach Wilson has to appreciate the chance to at least compete and get his career on track.
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