Jets GM Joe Douglas Backs Saleh’s Silence on QB Controversy
New York Jets General Manager Joe Douglas has his coach’s back. Asked by reporters on Tuesday about back-up quarterback Mike White’s incredible performance against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, and…
FLORHAM PARK, NJ – JULY 28: Head coach Robert Saleh, left, of the New York Jets talks with general manager Joe Douglas during morning practice at Atlantic Health Jets Training Center on July 28, 2021 in Florham Park, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
New York Jets General Manager Joe Douglas has his coach's back.
Asked by reporters on Tuesday about back-up quarterback Mike White's incredible performance against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, and whether it means there is a controversy now at starting quarterback with rookie Zach Wilson, Douglas pleaded the fifth.
“Again, I’m just going to piggyback on everything that Coach said and we’re going to cross that bridge when we get to it. I can’t say enough good things about Mike, talk about a person who maximized his opportunity,” Douglas said. “I’m so happy for Mike because this is what football’s all about. You root for guys that do their thing in the shadows and make the most of their opportunity.”
White dazzled on Sunday, tossing for 405 yards and three touchdowns. He moved the offense in a way the Jets couldn't with Zach Wilson under center.
Wilson injured the PCL in his knee two weeks ago; he is eligible to practice next week. However Head Coach Robert Saleh has been non-committal about whether Wilson will get his starting job back as soon as he is eligible.
The Jets play the Indianapolis Colts on Thursday night to open Week 9. White will get the start.
What happens if White plays well, and/or the Jets win with him under center is going to be fascinating. Does White have to match his superlative efforts from Sunday in order to take the starting job into another week?
One thing is certain is the Jets front office and coaching staff appears committed to Zach Wilson's long term prospects. They even hired Wilson's own personal coach, John Beck to be part of the coaching staff.
Beck was on the sideline Sunday.
Allowing Wilson to have a personal coach with the team echoes slightly with Tom Brady and his personal coach, Alex Guerrero; only difference being that Patriots coach Bill Belichick was irked by Guerrero's presence around the team.
It is interesting that the Jets revealed that Beck was on the staff just days after White starred for New York on Sunday. While the Jets are saying the right things about the potential of a quarterback battle; this move alone could be an indication that they maybe leaning Wilson.
