In the end, all that’s going to matter about Zach Wilson and the New York Jets is how he performs once he’s back on the field. If he plays well, all past transgressions will be forgiven. If he’s still the same guy who looks like a fish out of water, fans will want the team to pull the plug on his time in Green and White.
But one thing that was noticeable when Wilson met with the media yesterday is that he has either taken some serious strides toward maturation, or somebody has done a great job in coaching him up to meet the press.
As one would expect, Wilson was asked about an offseason that saw the Jets go out and acquire his replacement in Aaron Rodgers, his new role as the team’s backup quarterback and his past failures.
Wilson handled all of the questions like a pro. He cited his admiration for Rodgers as a young quarterback while sharing the fact that the two had formed a friendship well before the trade became a possibility. Wilson added that of course he “wished things had gone differently for the past two years and I’d played amazing” but said he appreciates Rodgers’ presence and his “willingness to help me”.
Another moment in which Wilson showed some growth and maturation came when he was asked about what the team told him in regards to their pursuit of Rodgers. Taking responsibility for his past failures, Wilson replied “They were extremely open about everything and I can’t be bitter about the situation because I didn’t perform”, finishing by saying he “appreciated the way they handled everything”.
The backup quarterback also acknowledged the entire process being a humbling experience when asked by Brian Costello of the New York Post “absolutely, this game will do that to you”.
Wilson’s job is to figure things out on the field, but in his brief appearance yesterday, it certainly sounds like he’s starting to “get it” off the field.