The New York Jets entered the 2023 NFL season viewed as Super Bowl contenders led by future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Now, New York is plummeting down the NFL standings with Zach Wilson becoming one of the biggest NFL Draft busts ever.
Wilson’s recurring struggles as the Jets’ starting quarterback have caused significant problems for the organization. Reports have surfaced of many players in the locker room turning on head coach Robert Saleh because of his continued support for Wilson.
- Kirk Cousins stats 2023: 108.2 QB rating, 1,075 passing yards, 69.6% completion rate, 9-2 TD-INT, 7.8 yards per attempt
Related: Latest on New York Jets’ interest in pursuing Zach Wilson replacement
While Rodgers has publicly defended Wilson, Jets’ icon Joe Namath was far more critical. With many expecting New York to lose to the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 4, dropping to 1-3, NFL trade rumors have surfaced connecting Kirk Cousins and Ryan Tannehill to the Jets.
In theory, either veteran quarterback could be an option. With the Vikings off to an 0-3 start and Cousins expected to leave in NFL free agency next spring, Minnesota could maximize Cousins’ value by trading him now.
As for the Titans, it’s becoming increasingly clear in recent weeks that they likely won’t be an AFC contender in 2023. Tennessee could trade Tannehill now, getting value for him before he leaves in free agency, then start Malik Willis or Will Levis.
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- Ryan Tannehill stats 2023: 67.7 QB rating, 548 passing yards, 59% completion rate, 1-3 TD-INT, 6.6 yards per attempt
However, per Dianna Russini of The Athletic, the Jets have not called Tennessee about Tannehill’s availability nor have they reached out to Minnesota on Cousins.
It reflects the reporting of recent weeks, pointing to the Jets’ organization still committing itself fully to Wilson. While the confidence is draining and New York added veteran quarterback Trevor Siemian to its practice squad last week, a change is unlikely as of now.
Related: NFL reporter addresses likelihood of Kirk Cousins trade
The approach leaves the Jets in a situation where they need their defense and ground attack to carry them to victories in low-scoring games. Entering NFL games today, though, New York has averaged just 2.7 yards per carry with 102 combined rushing yards in its last two losses.
