What Jets' Teammates Are Saying about Zach Wilson

Cobb, Conklin, Mosley, Reed and more address current quarterback situation

Author:
Ralph Ventre
Publish date:
Sep 26, 2023 8:17 AM EDT

In this story:

There are already rumors of potential division within the locker room, but what are the New York Jets really saying about their starting quarterback?

Zach Wilson lost his job last year, but an injury to Aaron Rodgers has given the former No. 2 overall draft pick an unexpected opportunity to retake the reins. The results haven't been pretty with the Jets scoring only three offensive touchdowns in three games thus far.

Still, head coach Robert Saleh continues to back his quarterback, noting the newfound confidence that Wilson has shown during practice.

"He’s much more confident, he’s much more accurate, he’s got much more command of the huddle, he looks better in the pocket," said Saleh on the Monday after a 15-10 home loss to the New England Patriots. "He’s here, he gives us our best chance to win, and as coaches, we’re going to do everything we can to help him."

As for Wilson's teammates, they are singing a similar tune. No one has seemingly thrown their quarterback under the bus, yet.

Here are quotes from running back Michael Carter, receiver Randall Cobb, tight end Tyler Conklin, linebacker CJ Mosley, cornerback DJ Reed and receiver Garrett Wilson.

Michael Carter, RB

"Zach, you know, he commands the huddle, and he makes plays and it’s not a one man show. It’s different from other sports. Football is the ultimate team sport for a reason, and we got to help him out."

Randall Cobb, WR

"As for Zach, that's something that you can talk to him about. See what he can do in his situation to be better. I think that's for all of us, to look ourselves in the mirror and see what we can do."

Tyler Conklin, TE

"There are a lot of times where he is in tough situations, pressure in his face, or whatever it may be. I am sure there are plays he wishes could have done better, there are plays where I wish I could have ran a better route for him, there are plays where I am sure someone wishes they could have blocked for him better. The media is going to put the blame on the quarterback and we are going to let him know we got his back and it’s not on him."

C.J. Mosley, LB

"Zach is a trustworthy person. The record doesn't work in his favor, but I know what kind of work he puts in on and off the field. You just gotta stay the course. He's won us games. When he's on time and on target, he's made some of the prettiest throws in the league."

D.J. Reed, CB

"When you're losing, the quarterback is the guy that usually takes the fall for it. If you're asking, do I trust Zach as our quarterback? The answer is yes. We've been going against him at practice during this whole offseason and I feel like he's ready."