Zach Wilson Out Again as Jets Turn Back to Grizzled Veteran

It's Trevor Time again for New York, which travels to Cleveland for TNF

Author:
Ralph Ventre
Publish date:
Dec 26, 2023 4:59 PM EST

In this story:

The short week will not be enough time for New York Jets' quarterback Zach Wilson to clear concussion protocol.

Jets' third-year head coach Robert Saleh confirmed that Wilson will be unavailable for Thursday Night Football in Cleveland.

"Zach's not clearing, so he's out," said Saleh on Tuesday afternoon.

That means 31-year-old veteran Trevor Siemian will try to win his second start in a row. With Wilson unable to go seven days after sustaining the head injury in Miami, Siemian was at the controls for the Week 16 win over the Washington Commanders on December 24. Posting his 14th career victory as an NFL starter, Siemian was serviceable to the tune of 217 yards passing, one touchdown and one interception.

"I thought he did a good job. He did a good job commanding the offense," said Saleh. "There’s going to be a couple of plays he’s going to want back, but overall it was OK."

Meanwhile, the 24-year-old Wilson hasn't practiced since entering the protocol midway through the December 17 road loss to the Dolphins. The former No. 2 overall draft pick played five first-half possessions and was sacked four times.

Wilson is the presumed starter when available, but there's a chance he may not suit up again for the Jets, who end the season on the road in New England on January 7.

Siemian will face a much tougher test against Cleveland's defense in Week 17. While the Commanders ranked last in the NFL, the Browns led the league in total defense (260.3) and yards per play allowed (4.46). The Jets (6-9) and the Browns (10-5) will square off on December 28 at 8:15 pm ET.

"Obviously, it is a short week, but he’ll prepare the way where he needs to," said Saleh.

Saleh also ruled out tight end Jeremy Ruckert, who entered the concussion protocol this week, for Thursday.