Jets Country

Jets Country 2022 Draft Review: Garrett Wilson Becomes Instant WR1

After being drafted 10th overall, the Ohio State product proceeded to win the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award

Ralph Ventre

In this story:

Garrett Wilson, Ohio State

Pick No. 10 (Round 1)
Wide Receiver
2022 Games Played: 17 (17 starts)
Jets Country Draft Re-Grade: A

After addressing the defensive backfield with their first of three first-round selections, the New York Jets shifted focus to the offensive side at No. 10 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. 

As it turns out, Gang Green picked a playmaker who did more than contribute as a rookie.

The result was the 2022 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. 

The Jets drafted Ohio State wide receiver Garrett Wilson and the first-round talent immediately landed in the starting lineup. He played 79 percent of the team's offensive snaps over the course of the season.

After making four catches in his NFL regular season debut, Wilson exploded against the Cleveland Browns in Week 2. He pulled in eight passes for 102 yards and two touchdowns in a 31-30 road win while also shaking off a key third-down drop.

"We’ve known that the lights aren’t too big for him, that he has already grown up and is capable of playing in this league," said veteran quarterback Joe Flacco. "For him to be able to stay focused and continue to make plays, it says a lot about who he is and the character he has." 

Not even inconsistent quarterbacking could hold down Wilson, who broke the 1,100-yard receiving barrier with four different passers delivering the footballs. 

He established clear-cut WR1 status, finishing the 2022 campaign as the team leader in receptions (83), receiving yards (1,103) and touchdown receptions (4).

The fabulous first-year pro recorded at least one catch in all 17 games. Wilson exceeded 50-yard receiving mark in 10 of 17 appearances. He gained at least 89 yards receiving on seven occasions.

The 6-foot Wilson recorded first downs on 56 of his 83 receptions. He gained 384 yards after the catch.

The NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honoree posted two-score performances in victories over the Browns and the Chicago Bears (Week 12). 

Wilson lit up the Minnesota Vikings for eight receptions and 162 yards. The dynamic wideout made crucial catches in the 20-17 home win over the AFC East champion Buffalo Bills, securing eight of nine targets for 92 yards. He also ran once, gaining seven yards in the victory. 

READ MORE:

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Ralph Ventre
RALPH VENTRE

Ralph, a former college football conference administrator, brings 20 years of media experience to the New York Jets beat. Prior to concentrating on Gang Green, he covered the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision for NFL Draft Bible on FanNation. Ventre remains as an official voter for the Stats Perform FCS Top 25 and the annual legacy awards. The Fordham University graduate is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America. The veteran sports media professional resides in his native state of New Jersey.

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