Jets’ Joe Douglas on Zach Wilson’s Future: ‘Going to Do What’s Best for the Team’

Brandon Sloter/Image Of Sport/Getty ImagesNew York Jets general manager Joe Douglas was noncommittal when asked about Zach Wilson’s future with the organization.

“We’re going to do what’s best for the team,” Douglas said, per Newsday’s Al Iannazzone.

He wasn’t willing to rule out a trade for the former No. 2 overall pick, although he added that he doesn’t have a “crystal ball.” With starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers set to return at the start of the 2024 season, there has been buzz surrounding a change of scenery for Wilson moving forward.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network revealed on Sunday that New York will attempt to trade Wilson in the offseason after a tumultuous career with the team. The 24-year-old struggled with inconsistency throughout his three seasons in the league, getting benched on multiple occasions throughout his 2023 campaign as the Jets attempted to find a reliable option under center following Rodgers’ injury in Week 1.

In 12 appearances, Wilson completed 60.1 percent of his passes for 2,271 yards and eight touchdowns to go along with seven interceptions. It’s worth noting that he was sacked 46 times, marking the third-highest total of any quarterback in 2023 despite failing to record a snap in five games.

A portion of those 46 sacks can be partially attributed to Wilson, as the former BYU standout has a tendency to hold onto the ball in the pocket. However, New York’s offensive line was riddled with injuries and poor play throughout the season.

When asked about Wilson’s future with the Jets, Rodgers was open to the idea of a backup quarterback role for the former first-round pick although he acknowledged the possibility of his 2024 season taking place in a city other than New York.

“I love Zach and I want what’s best for him,” Rodgers told the media on Monday, via Phillip Martinez of Yahoo Sports. “If he wants to be here, and if that’s what’s best for him, I’d love to have that relationship for another year. But I want what’s best for him and where he wants to be. And sometimes a change of scenery, as I know, can be a breath of fresh air.”

If he’s traded, Wilson will end his Jets career with a record of 12-21 as a starter.