Hall of Fame Game Chance for Jets' Two Former First-Rounders to Make Statement

Embattled quarterback and lineman can begin to change the narrative

Aaron Rodgers won't be playing, but there are still multiple reasons to watch the New York Jets' preseason opener. 

Thursday night's Hall of Fame Game between the Jets and Cleveland Browns provides a chance to gauge the current status of two former first-round draft picks.

It hasn't exactly been all sunshine and rainbows for offensive tackle Mekhi Becton and quarterback Zach Wilson since being billed as franchise players in 2020 and 2021, respectively. 

Right knee problems have prevented Becton, the No. 11 overall selection in 2020, from appearing in a regular season game since the 2021 season opener. Meanwhile, Wilson, who was drafted as the "quarterback of the future," failed to throw for more than 121 yards in four of nine starts last year and lost his grip on the starting job in the process.

Both men, however, appeared to undergo a revitalization of sorts this past offseason. 

Battling back from another knee surgery, Becton changed his diet and training regimen on the way to losing approximately 50 pounds in body weight. 

"[Becton] He’s done a great job this offseason in terms of getting his weight down, I’m sure you guys all took notice," said Saleh following the first preseason practice. "He looks awesome and he’s moving around really well, he’s in a good mental space, so he’s full go and part of the [offensive tackle] competition.

With the weight of the organization lifted off his shoulders by the arrival of Rodgers, Wilson, who turns 24 years old on gameday, has seemingly benefitted greatly from the four-time NFL MVP's presence.

"I think definitely some maturity, for sure. As much as anything, I hope that this time for him is like a deep inhale and exhale," said Rodgers on what he has noticed about Wilson since arriving in Florham Park. "He’s played really, really well in camp. You guys have watched him, he’s made a number of great throws. He looks confident. His fundamentals I think are improving."

On Thursday night, Becton and Wilson have the opportunity to showcase their progress during live game action before a national TV audience

"There's definitely a significance. I'm definitely treating this as if it's a regular game," said Becton after Tuesday's practice.

Although his reps will be limited, the 6-foot-7 tackle will get to see how his repaired knee responds to the grind of a real game.

"I think we’re trying to get him in the 20 to 25 range with regards to snaps," said Saleh on Tuesday. "I think he’s excited about it. Again, this is about him getting comfortable with his knee. His talent is undeniable."

As for Wilson, he gets the chance to serve as QB1 again, even if only for one night. 

"Just go out there, just play, do what he’s been doing in practice," said Saleh about the birthday boy. "Just show that confidence, the timing, and rhythm. He’s been performing really well in practice, and just take it to the field and do the best you can."

The third-year head coach does not intend to measure Wilson's performance on Thursday through the use of numbers.

"No expectations with the stats or anything like that, but excited about the direction he’s going and just excited for him to get back on the field again," said Saleh of the former No. 2 overall draft pick.

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By opening the NFL Preseason in the Hall of Fame Game, a tradition that began in 1962, the Jets and the Browns will play one more exhibition than the other 30 teams this summer. Although some may view it as an inconvenience, it's an added opportunity for young players who are trying to establish themselves in the league.

"It’s a good thing for the young guys, because they’re going to get an extra look in a game setting," said Saleh during the first week of camp. 

He reiterated his stance this past Sunday.

"We’re really just trying to get the young guys a lot of playing time, see what we got in them, so we’re not anticipating any of our starters playing and a couple of vets for that matter," said Saleh. "It’s going to be a lot of young guys running around and trying to showcase their skills and try to make the 53-man roster."

It will be the Jets' third appearance in the Hall of Fame Game with their most-recent participation coming 31 years ago against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1992. 

The Jets and Browns can be seen live on NBC at 8:00 pm ET on August 3. Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth will be on the call.

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