SI National Scribe Labels Jets' Quarterback 'Week 2 Loser'

After a tough day at Dallas, third-year signal caller's stock takes a hit

In the wake of a 30-10 loss to the Dallas Cowboys, Zach Wilson received a negative review from Sports Illustrated while landing on their weekly "winners and losers" list.

The New York Jets' quarterback appeared alongside a quintet of NFL teams under the dubious "L" column. SI scribe Gilberto Manzano suggested that Wilson, a former No. 2 overall draft pick, could prevent Gang Green from contending for an AFC playoff spot.

Facing a steep deficit, Wilson's late-game, risk-taking approach resulted in three fourth-quarter interceptions by the Cowboys in Week 2.

Called into duty when Aaron Rodgers went down on the fourth offensive snap of the season opener, the 24-year-old Wilson did enough to help the Jets secure a 22-16 overtime win over the Buffalo Bills on September 11. 

Through the season's first eight quarters of football, Wilson is 26-of-48 passing for 310 yards and two touchdowns. He has been picked off four times in the two-game span. 

From NFL Week 2 Winners and Losers:

— Zach Wilson —

It’s time for the Jets to explore trades for a starting-caliber quarterback because Wilson’s inconsistent performances will probably prevent them from competing for a playoff spot. 

New York’s defense and Garrett Wilson are too good to hinge their season on a quarterback who continues to show he’s not ready to be a starter in the NFL. Zach Wilson, the third-year quarterback, finished 12-of-27 for 170 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions in the loss to the Cowboys. 

It’s not entirely Wilson’s fault; the Jets’ offensive line had another sluggish performance. Perhaps a different quarterback would also struggle, but they need a signal-caller who won’t commit costly turnovers.

— Gilberto Manzano

Jets' QB Zach Wilson (2) throws on the run vs. the Cowboys / © Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

From center Connor McGovern to head coach Robert Saleh, multiple Jets would likely disagree with Manzano's assessment.

"We just need to make sure to keep his confidence high. When his confidence is high, he's a damn good player," said McGovern on Monday.

Meanwhile, Saleh doused cold water on the idea of adding a veteran quarterback to the roster.

"That’s probably more of a question for [general manager] Joe [Douglas], but I don’t think so," said the third-year head coach. 

Saleh highlighted the positives from Wilson's performance at Dallas. 

"The strike he threw to Garrett [Wilson] for the big touchdown. He threw a couple of really good [passes], took care of the ball. He scrambled when he needed to, he stepped up in the pocket when he needed to," said Saleh.

READ MORE:

Saleh Addresses Jets' Current Quarterback Situation

Jets Grounded by Parsons-led Cowboys, 30-10

Talking to McAfee, Rodgers Vows to 'Shock Some People' on Comeback Trail

FA Quarterbacks Available to Reinforce Jets' Depth Chart