New York Jets coachRobert Saleh has given a strong vote of confidence to Zach Wilson as the team’s new starting quarterback after it was confirmed that Aaron Rodgers will miss the entire season due to a torn Achilles tendon, as revealed by an MRI on Tuesday.
Saleh addressed the media and expressed frustration with the pessimism surrounding the team, stating that he doesn’t understand why people are prematurely writing off the Jets’ season. Despite Rodgers’ injury, Saleh is firmly endorsing Wilson as their QB1 and dispelling notions that their playoff aspirations are in ruins.
Rodgers was injured just four snaps into the new season and has been placed on the injured reserve. While Saleh did not provide a specific timetable for Rodgers’ recovery, he expressed the team’s desire for the four-time MVP, who was the centerpiece of their blockbuster offseason, to remain with the team during his rehabilitation.
Zach Wilson Confirmed as Jets’ Starting Quarterback Despite Rodgers’ Injury
The injury has ignited speculation about potential replacements, but Saleh left no room for doubt, emphasizing that Zach Wilson is their unequivocal starting quarterback. Saleh reiterated, “Zach’s our quarterback. This is Zach’s team, and we’re rolling with Zach.”
Facing the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, Wilson, who encountered challenges and demotions in the previous season, will now make his 23rd career start. Journeyman Tim Boyle will serve as the primary backup for the game.
The Jets had initially planned for Wilson, 24, to learn under Rodgers for a few years before reassuming the starting role. However, that plan was abruptly altered during Monday night’s overtime victory against the Buffalo Bills when Rodgers suffered the Achilles injury.
