Saleh Clarifies Quarterback Tim Boyle's Status

With Trevor Siemian on Practice Squad, Jets' coach answers backup question

Robert Saleh said that Tim Boyle has earned it.

The New York Jets' head coach publicly declared Boyle as the team's No. 2 quarterback on Wednesday. The NFL veteran will continue to back up current starter Zach Wilson.

"The quarterback room is status quo," said Saleh prior to practice in Florham Park. "Tim Boyle's earned his right to be the No. 2 quarterback."

After Aaron Rodgers landed on Injured Reserve due to a torn Achilles, Boyle and Wilson were the only two available quarterbacks in the building until last week when the Jets added a former NFL starter to their Practice Squad on September 27. 

Naturally, Trevor Siemian's arrival raised questions about Boyle's backup status moving forward. Saleh answered those questions by saying Boyle is staying put in his current role.

"Tim's done a great job in preparation as the No. 2," said the third-year head coach as the Jets prep for a Week 5 road trip to Denver.

Boyle, who began the regular season on the Practice Squad, signed with Gang Green this past April. Making him an attractive insurance option for the Green & White, the former Green Bay Packers' reserve QB possess an understanding of offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett's scheme. 

Boyle, who first entered the league as undrafted free agent in 2018, has made 17 career regular season appearances and owns an 0-3 record as a starter. 

The Connecticut product appeared in all four preseason games for the Jets this past summer, finishing 37-of-56 passing for 358 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions. Boyle recorded a 146.8 quarterback rating in the triumphant preseason finale, throwing for two touchdowns against Giants at MetLife Stadium.

Jets Add Veteran QB Option as Wilson Struggles

Saleh also expressed satisfaction with Siemian thus far. The 31-year-old field general has made 30 NFL starts and has one 3,400-yard passing season to his credit.

"Trevor's been awesome. Love having him here. He's acclimating fine," said Saleh.

READ MORE:

Jets' Starting CB Lands in Concussion Protocol, Backup Also Out

Wilson's Teammates Speaking Optimistically after Week 4 Performance

Jets' New Quarterback Addresses Role after First Practice

Veteran QB Tim Boyle Joining Jets for 2023