Zach Wilson Receives Vote of Confidence from Coach Saleh, but Faces Criticism from Joe Namath
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson has had a rough start to his NFL career, and the criticism is coming from all angles. While head coach Robert Saleh continues to express his support for the young quarterback, Jets legend Joe Namath has been vocal in his disapproval.
In a recent radio interview on “The Michael Kay Show” on ESPN New York radio, Namath didn’t hold back in his criticism of Wilson. He called Wilson’s performance in the Jets’ recent loss “awful” and expressed his frustration with the rookie quarterback.
Namath was particularly irked by Wilson’s first sack, where he went down without being touched. He questioned Wilson’s commitment and said, “You quit on a play? What is going on? It’s disgusting.” Namath even went as far as saying he would trade Wilson and that he’s seen enough of him.
But Namath didn’t stop at Wilson; he also took aim at Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas. He suggested that they should be replaced, stating that they aren’t picking the right players and aren’t doing a good job of coaching. Namath believes that major changes need to be made from top to bottom.
Saleh, on the other hand, continues to stand by Wilson. Despite the overwhelming criticism and statistical evidence against him, Saleh called Wilson a “much improved” player and the Jets’ “unquestioned quarterback.” He believes that Wilson has made significant progress since last season and will continue to start as long as he shows improvement.
The fan base, however, is growing impatient and clamoring for another quarterback. The Jets have given no indication that they are considering a change at the position and seem committed to sticking with Wilson for now. He will start in their upcoming game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Wilson’s performance has been underwhelming so far this season. In the Jets’ loss to the New England Patriots, he completed just 52.4% of his passes and had a QBR of 27.0, both career lows. The Jets’ offense, which was built around the injured Aaron Rodgers, has struggled to find its rhythm with Wilson at the helm.
Despite the criticism and frustration, Saleh remains optimistic about Wilson’s potential. He believes that the young quarterback has shown improvement in various areas and looks fantastic when he hits his timing and rhythm. Saleh acknowledges the challenge of adjusting the offense on the fly but is confident that they will find a solution.
However, Saleh’s unwavering support of Wilson risks losing the locker room. Frustration was evident during the game against the Patriots, with players like Garrett Wilson and Michael Carter barking at coaches. But linebacker C.J. Mosley, cornerback D.J. Reed, and wide receiver Randall Cobb assured the media that there would be no fracturing within the team.
Mosley defended Wilson, saying that he knows the kind of work he puts in on and off the field and that they will stay the course. He believes that Wilson has shown his ability to win games and make impressive throws when he’s on target.
The Jets’ decision to stick with Wilson despite the criticism and calls for change is a bold one. Only time will tell if their faith in the young quarterback will pay off or if major changes will be necessary to turn the team’s fortunes around.