Two simple words from New York Jets star wide receiver Garrett Wilson recently got NFL fans buzzing after a fan posted a video of Carolina Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young with the caption, “He might be better than we thought.”
Wilson’s reply, “He is,” spawned rumors about his future with the Jets and whether he could be eyeing a trade to the Carolina Panthers in 2025.
What Did Garrett Wilson Mean With His Shoutout to Bryce Young?
While it seems innocent enough, Wilson’s response comes on the heels of a rough season for the New York Jets. It was riddled with injuries, inconsistent play from Aaron Rodgers, and questions surrounding their offensive scheme. Wilson, a former Offensive Rookie of the Year, has been a bright spot for the Jets but has also been visibly frustrated at times.
Wilson’s third-year campaign produced a career year, amassing 101 receptions, 1,104 yards and seven touchdowns. He has topped 1,000 yards each season since entering the league as the 10th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
He is
— Garrett Wilson (@GarrettWilson_V) January 7, 2025
The timing of Wilson’s comment about Young was enough to send social media into overdrive, especially considering a Dec. 29 report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport intimated that Wilson could request a trade if Rodgers returns to the Jets in 2025.
Rumors of Wilson Trade From Jets Heat Up
While Wilson hasn’t publicly requested a trade, his comment threw gas on the flames. Fans and analysts alike have speculated that Wilson may be intrigued by the idea of playing with Young. Young’s sophomore season performance did not silence doubters who question whether the Panthers made the right move by selecting him with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
“He would feed you the football,” said Josh Norris of Underdog Fantasy.
TIME FOR YOU TO COME HOME LETS MAKE IT HAPPEN 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
— 𝙐𝙩𝙤𝙥𝙞𝙖 (@UtopiaSports) January 7, 2025
“Send over that 8th pick big dawg,” said another fan.
The speculation also feeds into a broader narrative surrounding Wilson and the Jets. The wide receiver has been vocal about his desire to win and often expresses frustration when the team underperforms. If the Jets fail to assemble a competitive roster in 2025, some insiders believe Wilson could explore options elsewhere.
Wilson-Young Connection in Carolina
Young wants nothing more than to prove doubters wrong and emerge as the Panthers’ franchise quarterback, so Carolina could be an attractive destination for Wilson. The two are both hungry for success and could be just what the doctor ordered in the Tarheel State.
The club has to be willing to invest in offensive weapons to help Young along, and Wilson would definitely be an investment. His talent alone would draw significant interest from receiver-needy teams like the Panthers. Pro Football Network’s own Alex Kennedy compiled a list of Wilson’s potential destinations should the situation between New York and Wilson come to a head.
What’s Next for Wilson and the Jets?
Right now, it’s all pure speculation — what NFL fans thrive on. Wilson’s contract with the Jets runs through at least 2025 with a fifth-year option, meaning any potential move would involve significant negotiations. But the NFL is a league of surprises, and player movement has become a trend in recent years. If Wilson’s relationship with the Jets sours or the team’s struggles continue, rumblings of a potential exit will only grow louder.
SEE MORE: ‘What a Clown’ — Jets Fans Call Out Rodgers After Jets QB Addresses Frustration With Wilson
Wilson’s “He is” comment may have been nothing more than admiration for a fellow NFL player, but even two words can set social media ablaze. Jets fans will hope the star receiver remains committed to New York, while Panthers (and Pittsburgh Steelers and Las Vegas Raiders and Denver Broncos) fans can’t help but dream of what could be.