The New York Jets 2023 season did not go how they wanted it to, finishing with a 7-10 record. A big reason for their lack of success was the lack of successful quarterback play they saw following the injury to Aaron Rodgers.
On the NFL Honors Red Carpet on Thursday, Jets owner Woody Johnson was asked about New York’s season. In his response, he ripped former second-overall pick Zach Wilson. What did he say?
Jets Owner Says Team Needs a Backup Quarterback
Following Rodgers’ torn Achilles on the fourth snap of the season, Wilson took over the starting reigns once again. Wilson had been the Jets’ starter for the previous two seasons but was sent to the bench when the team traded for Rodgers in the offseason.
Wilson went on to start 12 games, passing for 2,271 yards, eight touchdowns, and seven interceptions. However, with his continued struggles, Wilson was benched in favor of third-string quarterback Tim Boyle.
Boyle then started two games but was also benched for poor play. He passed for 360 yards, one touchdown, and four interceptions. He was benched in favor of fourth-string QB Trevor Siemian. Siemian then started three games, playing in five, where he went 2-2 and passed for 184 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
“We need a backup quarterback,” said Johnson. “We didn’t have one last year.”
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones on Rex Ryan to PFN’s @DavidBearmanPFN:
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Wilson is set to be a free agent following the 2024 season. The Jets will have the choice to pick up his fifth-year option, but will likely decline it when that time comes in May.
Johnson also shared that the offense as a whole needs to improve. “It’s all about the offense. The offense has to score,” he said.
New York had the 31st-ranked offense in 2023, averaging just 268.6 yards per game and scoring 22 touchdowns. “The offense has to play together like a team.”
Backup quarterback wasn’t the only need Johnson pointed out. “I think you need a guard, at least another guard. Maybe a couple of tackles and a receiver,” said Johnson.
In 2024, the Jets will get to see the return of Rodgers, barring a new injury. “I’ve seen him throw. I mean, he’s unbelievable,” said Johnson when asked about his belief in Rodgers going forward. He also mentioned that this year they must find success. “We have to produce this year,” said Johnson.
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The new league year starts on March 13, 2024. When the new league year starts, the Jets will be able to look towards free agency and the trade market to fix any issues and attempt to find a backup quarterback. The NFL Draft is also set to take place from April 25-27.
As the 2023 NFL season comes to a close, the 2024 NFL Draft is on the horizon. Pro Football Network has you covered with everything from team draft needs to the Top 100 prospects available. Plus, fire up PFN’s Mock Draft Simulator to put yourself in the general manager’s seat and make all the calls!