It sounds like Zach Wilson’s second year with the Jets is off to a good start.
Robert Saleh already noted Wilson’s improved physical appearance this offseason. The Jets coach observed a bulkier version of Wilson during the team’s voluntary offseason activities.
“Zach looks good,” Saleh said Friday. “He’s definitely hit the weight room, looks beefy in a good way. He’s definitely filled out.”
For reference, Wilson was listed at 214 pounds on the Jets’ website during his rookie season, which ranked 26th out of 32 quarterbacks who started at least eight games in 2021. A bigger frame would benefit Wilson in 2022 after he finished 2021 as one of the NFL’s most-sacked quarterbacks, though his mobility could take a hit.
None of that will matter, however, if Wilson doesn’t improve his play on the field and gain a better understanding of New York’s offense. Saleh has faith in that progression as well, even after Wilson finished his rookie season as one of the league’s least efficient quarterbacks.
“He’s got a really good command of the offense, doing a really good job in regards to that,” Saleh said. “There’s little things he’s doing where you’re seeing more security. He’s not a rookie [anymore] so he’s being more vocal. He looks good. He’s getting more comfortable. He’s never had trouble grasping the offense, but he was a rookie so he goes through it. He’s much further ahead than he was a year ago, for sure.”
The Jets did a lot to make Wilson’s job easier this offseason. They upgraded his offensive line and drafted a receiver and running back with two of the team’s first four picks. Joe Douglas added starters on defense as well through free agency and the draft to improve the team’s 32nd-ranked unit from a year ago.
