Quarterback Mike White was named the starter over Zach Wilson for this weekend’s game against the Chicago Bears, coach Robert Saleh announced Wednesday.
Saleh said “this is not a nail in the coffin” for Wilson.
When asked why the decision was made, Saleh said, “It’s the same things we talked about when we elevated him to the second spot. … We know he’s fully capable, he’s started in this league, he’s won games for us and we just want to give him an opportunity.”
Players were informed of the decision during a team meeting Wednesday morning. The Jets (6-4) host the Bears (3-8) on Sunday in East Rutherford, N.J.
Saleh added rookie cornerback Sauce Gardner (calf) will be limited during Wednesday’s practice.
Wilson endured his worst performance of the season last Sunday in a 10-3 loss to the New England Patriots. The second-year quarterback completed 9 of 22 passes for a career-worst 77 yards and ran three times for 26 yards.
He caught heat after the game when he was asked if he thought he let the Jets’ defense down. The heat came after his one-word answer: “No.”
Saleh said Wilson spoke to the team after the game. The coach did not reveal what the quarterback said, however.
“Zach’s career here is not over,” Saleh said Wednesday. “I know that’s going to be the narrative … that’s not even close to the case. The full intent is to make sure Zach gets back on the football field this year.
“The young man needs a reset.”
Wilson, who was drafted second overall in 2021, missed the first three games of the season while recovering from a preseason knee injury. The Jets won the first four games he started upon his return but are 1-2 since, with both losses coming to New England.
Wilson, 23, has completed 55.6 percent of his passes this year — matching last season’s rate — and has 1,279 passing yards with four touchdowns and five interceptions. His career touchdown-to-interception ratio through 20 career games is 13-to-16.
White, 27, has yet to throw a pass this season. He completed 66.7 percent of his attempts for 953 yards with five touchdowns and eight interceptions in four games in 2021.
–Field Level Media
