The New York Jets have given quarterback Zach Wilson, the second overall pick in 2021, and his representatives permission to look for a trade. This was confirmed by Jets’ general manager Joe Douglas during a chat with reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine on Wednesday.
Wilson’s representatives can now engage with teams to gauge interest in their client and return to the Jets’ front office with the proposal they like. But considering how Wilson’s value diminished in a couple of seasons due to poor performances, they are likely in for quite a challenge.
The Jets envisioned Wilson to sit behind future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers last season and use the opportunity to improve his game out of the spotlight. However, Wilson was forced to step into the starting role in Week 1 as Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles injury.
While Wilson delivered some flashes of talent, he struggled most of the 2023 season and was benched twice in favor of veteran Tim Boyle and journeyman Trevor Siemian. He ended the campaign with a 4-7 record as a starter, completing 60.1% of his passes and throwing for 2,271 yards, eight touchdowns, and seven interceptions.
It is unclear how much the Jets can get for Wilson in a trade. Most analysts project they could fetch a late pick or conditional draft compensation. They could also release Wilson if there are no takes, but in that case, they will be hit with $11.1 million in dead money.
