With the second overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, the New York Jets draft Zach Wilson, quarterback out of BYU. The Jets recently traded away previous franchise quarterback Sam Darnold to the Panthers, so it’s no surprise that the Jets decided to draft a quarterback. While Trevor Lawrence was always the clear cut top pick, Zach Wilson’s play and exceptional showing in the pro day was enough to surpass all others and become the second overall pick.
Zach Wilson Highlights
Zach Wilson NFL Draft Profile and Stats
Zach Wilson
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 214 lbs
Age: 21
College: BYU Cougars
Zach Wilson 2020 Stats
Completion Percentage: 73.5%
Passing Yards: 3,692
Passing TDs/INTs: 33/3
Pass Yards/Att: 11.0
Passer Rating: 196.4
Rushing Yards: 254
Rushing TDs: 10
Zach Wilson Draft Profile
Strengths
- Fantastic at throwing off-platform and at different arm angles
- Pinpoint accuracy
- Quick flick release of the ball
- Great pocket awareness and blitz recognition
Weaknesses
- Wasn’t under pressure much at BYU
- Had great offensive line and poor competition
- Puts too much stress on arm with throwing while not set
RELATED | Full Zach Wilson NFL Draft Profile, Highlights and Stats
What to Expect From Zach Wilson in 2021
Zach Wilson will no doubt step right into the starting quarterback position for the New York Jets immediately. With the trade of Darnold, the only other quarterbacks the Jets have on their roster are James Morgan and Mike White — neither anywhere near starting material. He has a decent running game around him, with running back Tevin Coleman and an okay, at best, offensive line. The pass blocking ability of the offensive line isn’t the greatest, but he certainly isn’t in the worst position either, especially given his mobility.
The Jets decided to make a splash at the receiver position signing free agent Corey Davis this past free agency period. Wilson will step into an offense that boasts Davis, Jamison Crowder, Denzel Mims, Keelan Cole and others. While this certainly isn’t the best receiving corps in the league, it may very well be the best for teams that are drafting their franchise quarterbacks this year. It’s likely that the Jets are going to rely on his accuracy and deep ball abilities to lean more towards an air raid offense. All of this adds up to Wilson being a day one starter who will be a big time contributor starting Week 1.
