Jets' Starting Quarterback Starts Week in Concussion Protocol

Robert Saleh announces a starter and a contingency plan for home game vs. Commanders

Zach Wilson will be the New York Jets' starting quarterback once he clears concussion protocol.

Jets' third-year head coach Robert Saleh confirmed that notion while addressing reporters on Monday. He also recounted the moments leading up to Wilson's exit from the Week 15 road loss in Miami. 

Wilson left the December 17 game prior to the Jets' final possession of the first half and CBS sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson initially said it was due to dehydration issues. Early in the second half, the Jets announced that Wilson was unavailable for the remainder of the game due to a concussion. 

"I’m not exactly sure on the communication, I just know that it came from up top that they wanted to review for a possible head injury, and he was put in the concussion protocol, and that’s it.

Starting behind a patchwork offensive line, Wilson went 4-of-11 passing for 26 yards prior to exiting. He was sacked four times and seemingly faced pressure on every dropback. 

In the event that Wilson is not permitted to play, Trevor Siemian will step up for the Jets when they host the Washington Commanders on December 24 at MetLife Stadium. Siemian took over against the Dolphins and didn't fare any better. He completed 14 of 26 pass attempts for 110 yards and two interceptions.

"I’m ready. Whatever they need me to do I’m ready. Yeah, I’m ready to go," said Siemian following the shutout in Miami.

In terms of the severity of Wilson's head injury, Saleh was unwilling to offer an assessment. 

"I just know that he’s in the protocol and he’s got to go through the different stages to clear it," said Saleh on Monday.

As long as Wilson gets clearance prior to kickoff, he'll take the snaps for Gang Green in the home finale.

"He definitely could, for sure [not practice during the week but play on Sunday]," said Saleh.

In his third season as a pro, Wilson has passed for 2,271 yards and eight touchdowns. The former No. 2 overall draft pick, who has been intercepted seven times, owns a 60.1 completion percentage and a 77.2 quarterback rating. 

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