2021 New York Jets Position Group Analysis In-Depth: Quarterback

Jets Position Group Analysis: Quarterback

Zach Wilson

Wilson enters his rookie season in 2021 with the Jets as the clear-cut week one starter. Last season, he played incredibly at BYU. From an intangibles point of view, Wilson has been credited for his relentless work ethic. Wilson also possesses the needed leadership qualities, which his teammates have commended him for early on. Having a new head coach in Robert Saleh and offensive coordinator, Mike LaFleur makes this situation a good one for Wilson. LaFleur will be implementing an offense that should help Wilson as a young player.

Physically speaking, Wilson has the talent to be special. His arm talent is awfully exciting. Wilson has accuracy, arm strength, and mobility. Last year, he showed his pinpoint accuracy making throws all over the field both in and out of the pocket. Wilson has velocity on his passes and can throw the ball deep downfield. He also has a special ability to wind up and throw the football from a multitude of arm angles. His ability to win with his legs is enough. He can extend plays and run fine.

In terms of year one expectations for Wilson, he just has to show promise for the future. He certainly has confidence in himself and is capable of commanding the group. From a statistical standpoint, a completion percentage around 65 percent, roughly 3,500 yards passing, and 25 total touchdowns seem fair. As a rookie, mistakes will happen. It will be key for Wilson to limit them and not commit the same ones. In 2021, Wilson could very well meet these benchmarks, prove he can be the Jets’ franchise quarterback, and provide Jets fans with excitement about the future.

James Morgan

As a 2020 fourth-round draft pick, Morgan came into a tough situation. He was a raw prospect who got no offseason program to gain experience. Morgan does have attractive physical attributes. such as his size, along with a strong arm. The hope with Morgan should be that he learns the new scheme. Then, once he picks it up, he has to show his traits.

With Morgan, he is under contract for the next three years. Ideally, he can develop into a respectable backup quarterback for the next few seasons. In training camp and the preseason, it will be vital for Morgan to make some plays to make the roster.

Mike White

White has been with the Jets since 2019. Currently, he is also the longest-tenured player at the quarterback position. White has three NFL seasons under his belt, but not one start. It seems likely White is a camp player who maybe beats out Morgan for the backup quarterback job.

Nick Foles

The Jets have been linked to Nick Foles for quite some time now. Foles would provide instant value to the Jets. He has been in the league for a long time which would be key for Wilson to have as a rookie. Foles has familiarity with Douglas from their time together with the Eagles. The two won a Super Bowl together.

Foles would provide great experience. He has been through it all in the NFL. In 2021, he is a good backup quarterback. It seems likely Foles could be a Jet, the only holdup is his contract. If the Jets were to trade for Foles, in the deal they would have to get rid of his 2022 cap hit. This would help Wilson develop as a young player.

Jets Position Group Analysis: Conclusions

Having Wilson as the starter, Foles as the backup, and Morgan as the third quarterback would be good. White could make the roster with a stellar summer if the Jets do not trade for Foles, or he could beat Morgan out. In the end, the main goal in 2021 is Wilson having a good rookie season.

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