The New York Jets are fortunate to have Garrett Wilson as a cornerstone of their franchise. Since being selected 10th overall out of Ohio State, Wilson has weathered multiple quarterback changes, two head coaching regimes, and two separate rebuilds. Throughout it all, he has remained a consummate professional and the focal point of New York's offense.
Even more impressive, despite the team's 1-3 start, Wilson did not point fingers at the coaching staff when asked who deserves the most blame on Wednesday. Instead, he placed the responsibility squarely on the players. "We are the ones out there on the field playing the game and making each play come to life, or not doing so," Wilson said. "I take a lot of pride in just playing my role to make sure everyone's job in this facility is secure and at an all-time high." While Wilson continues to embody leadership, it is unfair for him and the team to endure another losing season. His answers about the current standing only highlight the importance of what New York is about to embark on.
Jets Must Feed Garrett Wilson to Spark Turnaround
The Jets sit at 1-3 heading into Sunday's Week 5 matchup against the Browns. After a promising Week 1 win over the Titans, they have stumbled in three consecutive games against NFC North opponents. Consequently, Wilson's target share has been inconsistent. After seeing just seven targets in Week 2's loss to Green Bay, he exploded in Week 3 against Detroit with 10 catches for a touchdown on 13 targets. But in Week 4, the Jets failed to get their star the ball enough, as he totaled just four targets and three receptions.
That fluctuation has left even head coach Glenn puzzled about how to maximize his top offensive weapon. "We have to find a way to try to get (Garrett) the ball," Glenn said. "He's basically one of the engines that get us going. We have to figure out a way to get those guys the ball as much as possible." Yet Wilson remains steadfast in his belief that the team can right the ship.
The next test comes against the Browns on Sunday, and three of the next four opponents—the Browns, Dolphins, and Raiders—were projected to struggle this season. Wilson is ready for the Jets to break out of their funk. "Three-game losing streak; no one wants to endure that," Wilson said. "But that's where we're at right now. We've got to get on the board."
Time Is Running Out for Jets to Prove They Can Win with Wilson
At 26 years old, Wilson wants to play meaningful football. He has been patient before, but that patience could run out. Ultimately, the more the Jets lose, the harder it will be for the team to convince him they can turn things around during his career. It's now or never.
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