Wilson delivered his first breakout performance with eight catches for 102 yards and two touchdowns in win at Cleveland.
When the Jets selected Wilson earlier this year with the 10th overall pick in the NFL Draft, a key reason was his route-running ability. Running routes, along with playmaking, is what stood out on his scouting reports out of Ohio State.
On Sunday, in the Jets incredible 31-30 win over the Cleveland Browns, the rookie’s skill set was on full display for all to witness.
Wilson was a matchup nightmare for the Browns all day, simply put – they just had no answer for him.
Early in the second quarter, quarterback Joe Flacco found Wilson in the corner of the end zone for a game-tying touchdown. On the play, Wilson put a quick shoulder move on rookie cornerback Martin Emerson to create separation. It was quick, smooth, and led to an easy throw for his veteran quarterback to complete for six points.
Wilson’s second touchdown of the day helped cap off an improbable Jets fourth-quarter comeback. Again, the rookie’s ability to find space, this time over the middle, allowed for Flacco to hit him with a dart for the 15-yard TD reception.
“We were the only ones that thought we could do this,” Wilson said afterward, via the team’s official site. “Especially when we were down, 30-17. That is a great team we just beat. We pulled through, and I am just excited.”
The route-running, big-play ability, and overcoming adversity were all there to see. Earlier in the fourth quarter, Wilson dropped a third-down pass on third-and-4. The Jets were forced to punt, jeopardizing their chances of tying the game. Wilson, however, showed his focus by stepping up again when his number was called.
For Flacco right now, and Zach Wilson when he returns to action, it looks like the Jets (1-1) potentially have themselves a game-changing wide receiver.
Anthony Rushing is on Twitter @TonyRushingNY
Baseline Sports NY is on Twitter @Baseline_NY
