Garrett Wilson’s frustration is evident, as his future with the New York Jets remains uncertain. The talented wide receiver has a strong desire to win, yet three consecutive losing seasons in his NFL career have weighed heavily on him. Despite these challenges, Wilson has shone brightly for the Jets, setting receiving records and establishing himself as one of the league’s elite talents at his position. This season, he ranks as the fourth-most targeted player in the NFL.
However, Wilson feels he could contribute even more to the team’s success, particularly as they endure a disappointing season with a 4-11 record. In a recent game against the Los Angeles Rams, he recorded six receptions for 54 yards, and notably, four of his seven targets came during the Jets’ final drive. Meanwhile, Davante Adams was heavily favored by quarterback Aaron Rodgers with 13 targets, a situation not surprising given their eight years together in Green Bay. In contrast, Wilson’s role appears diminished recently.
After the game, when asked about his lack of involvement in the offensive plays, Wilson expressed uncertainty, stating, “I’ve just got to go out and put my best foot forward and hope that things fall my way. I’d love to be involved, love to make an impact on the game, but if people see it differently, then it’s out of my control. So, just trying to do what I can do.” His sentiments on his future with the Jets seem similar; he has been noncommittal when addressing the possibility of a contract extension after this season.
Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich acknowledged the need to better integrate Wilson into the game plan, remarking that he is “one of the best players on our team,” and emphasized the importance of finding ways to utilize Wilson effectively to help the team win. Wilson is due for an extension after this season, though the Jets maintain control over his contract until 2027. There are whispers suggesting that, considering his impressive stats with 90 receptions and 987 receiving yards, Wilson might be contemplating a trade.
The future of Wilson, along with key players like Aaron Rodgers, will require significant considerations from the next general manager and coach as they map out the team’s direction. Ulbrich noted that if Wilson weren’t frustrated, it would be concerning, emphasizing Wilson’s competitive nature and his understanding of how he can impact the team’s success.
On a more positive note, the Jets have recently improved their offensive starts, scoring touchdowns on their opening drives in the last two games after not accomplishing this all season. However, there is still room for improvement. With playoff aspirations dashed, Ulbrich took a bold approach, attempting to convert on fourth down five times against the Rams, with mixed results leading to points for the opposing team.
In terms of individual performances, cornerback D.J. Reed has emerged as a standout player this season and may attract significant attention as he enters free agency in the upcoming offseason, presenting a challenge for the Jets’ decision-makers. Conversely, kicker Anders Carlson has shown inconsistency, missing an extra point and a potentially game-changing field goal in the latest loss, raising questions about his future with the team.
Injury updates report that rookie left tackle Olu Fashanu is dealing with a foot injury, with more evaluations to follow. Meanwhile, defensive tackle Quinnen Williams missed the Rams game due to a hamstring issue, but there’s a possibility of his return in the next matchup. Cornerback Sauce Gardner and safety Tony Adams also exited the game with injuries.
A notable statistic from the recent loss to Los Angeles is that the Jets only scored nine points without executing any punts, a rare feat echoed by only the 1991 Colts in the Super Bowl era. Looking ahead, the Jets will prepare for their final road game of the season, facing the Buffalo Bills, a pivotal AFC East rival.
