While NY Jets fans have spent most of the offseason watching the performance of Aaron Rodgers and the continued absence of Haason Reddick, they have also been watching some of their former quarterbacks try to shine elsewhere.
In addition to Geno Smith in Seattle and newly-minted starter Sam Darnold in Minnesota, Zach Wilson is trying to make the Denver Broncos.
With Wilson having such a big arm, he is always good for a few training camp highlights and splendid plays in the preseason. Going to a Sean Payton offense that can take any UFL reject and have them completing over 60% of their passes seems ideal for a player like Wilson.
Unfortunately for the still vocal minority of Wilson supporters, many of which are still in the state of Utah, his impressive plays in the preseason may not do much to earn him extra playing time. With first-round pick Bo Nix due to start at some point, Wilson will likely be fighting with Jarrett Stidham for a roster spot.
In a one-two punch, Wilson's hopes of starting in Denver could come to an end. After ESPN's Jeremy Fowler confirmed that Broncos coaches were impressed with Nix's ability in private, head coach Sean Payton also told reporters on Friday that Wilson is currently "phase three" in their quarterback plans.
Former Jets QB Zach Wilson 'phase three' in Broncos quarterback plans
Wilson has completed 12-19 passes for 146 yards and a touchdown during the preseason. While these numbers are encouraging, Jets fans remember all too well the highlights of Wilson ripping it down the field in the preseason. There were times when he looked like a franchise quarterback.
While Payton would be able to boost Wilson's numbers in a vacuum, the issues he has with getting the ball out quickly, avoiding turnovers, and throwing accurately down the field are still there. One offseason with the guy who accentuated Drew Brees is not going to completely change everything.
Wilson may end up on the Broncos roster, but likely as the third quarterback. Nix may end up starting sooner rather than later, and it seems unlikely that Denver will part ways with Jarrett Stidham. Wilson's preseason stardom may not translate to success in the regular season.
In other words, it's more of the same. Wilson is flashing his arm, but he may not be a franchise quarterback. This time around, the altitude is different and he's wearing blue and orange.
