Things are not off to a great start for Zach Wilson through his first three games with the New York Jets.
So, what should the Jets do if his struggles continue?
Perhaps give Cam Newton a call.
Former Jets defensive end John Abraham suggested that his former team go out and sign the veteran quarterback while appearing on the “Upon Further Review” podcast with Zach Brook on Thursday.
“Hell, why not get Cam Newton?” he said. “I know it don’t sound right — just to save some games. Save some face. Cam’s a good leader. He can show how to sit in the pocket, show him how to take hits – Cam got hit more than damn near any quarterback in the world – also he knows New England inside and out. … Cam is chilling at home … and he’s played Buffalo. Miami. He’s played those teams in the division. Why not?
“And if you don’t have him start at that time he’s a good coach. He’ll be a great coach. He’ll bring momentum, bring a couple more people in the stands just to see him. It might not sound good but it sounds right to me.”
Newton was cut by the New England Patriots in a somewhat surprising move right before the start of the season, allowing rookie Mac Jones to take the starting job.
Listen to New York sports talk now on Audacy and shop the latest Jets team gear
The 32-year-old former MVP remains a free agent, although it is unclear if he is open to a backup or mentor-type role.
But while Abraham suggested the Jets take a chance on Newton, he has not necessarily lost faith in Wilson. He preached patience for the second overall pick and pointed out how the Jets are a young team that may be missing a leader who can fill the void until Wilson can figure out the league.
“Who are there receivers right now?” Abraham asked. “So, you have a decent receiving corps, but do you have a receiver that can really coach the quarterback? Do you have a receiver that can tell the quarterback to stop this and do this. I need you to do this and do this. Do you have somebody who can take control of the leadership until the quarterback is ready?”
“I think a lot of the hype kinda hurts the quarterback sometimes,” Abraham continued. “I think a lot of people thought Zach was going to come in there and be lights out. Come on, you gotta look at how he played in college. He was a gunslinger, kinda an aggressive guy. You can look at Baker Mayfield, his first year, he had kinda an up and down year and that’s what Zach is going through now. I definitely think he is going to get better. … When you get a quarterback like that you gotta get ready for the ups and downs and he’s down right now. We got a long season and hopefully he can learn from the season.”
Related
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram