Jets Owner Drops Bombshell: Unveils Unexpected Zach Wilson Trade Strategy

If the New York Jets are unable to locate a trade partner for quarterback Zach Wilson, the team’s owner, Woody Johnson, will attempt to keep him for the 2024 season.

The Jets have been looking for a prospective trade partner for Wilson, but have yet to reach an agreement.

That’s not to say they haven’t gotten any offers, as NBC Sports reports the Jets have inquired about the 24-year-old. 

However, they are dissatisfied with the proposals made to trade the former No. 2 overall choice and are waiting for better ones.

Speculation Rises Over Jets’ Intentions with Zach  Wilson

Johnson indicated Monday that if the Jets can’t find a team to trade Wilson to, they will try to keep him, but many have interpreted this as a ploy to entice stronger bids and enhance his value.

“If we don’t trade him, we’re going to keep him,” Johnson stated during the NFL owners’ meetings.

Wilson was signed as Aaron Rodgers’ backup, but the 40-year-old’s catastrophic Achilles injury thrust Wilson into the starting lineup just four games into the season. 

Tyrod Taylor was signed as a backup while Rodgers recovered.

However, after the Jets finished 7-10 in 2023, Wilson was blamed. He threw for 2,271 yards and eight touchdowns, with seven interceptions, showcasing his inexperience at the highest level.

Owner’s Remarks Add Twist to Jets’ Wilson Saga

It would certainly be unexpected if the Jets decided to keep Wilson on the team, especially considering the owner’s harsh remarks about his performance. 

During the NFL Honors, Johnson expressed the need for a backup quarterback. Last year, we were without one.”

During a press availability at the annual meetings, coach Robert Saleh chose not to provide any comments regarding Wilson’s potential departure on Monday. 

Saleh indicated that he would rely on their general manager, Joe Douglas, who might also choose to shift responsibility to Johnson.

It seems that Wilson’s future with the company may be uncertain, depending on Johnson’s decision. 

The billionaire owner, at the age of 76, has recognized the benefits of Wilson finding a new beginning elsewhere.

“It would be advantageous for him to adopt a new identity and relocate to start afresh,” Johnson commented. “I believe that would likely be more advantageous for him.”