Despite a season marked by inconsistency from quarterback Justin Fields and the latest injury to wide receiver Garrett Wilson, the New York Jets are surprisingly turning things around. The team has not lost a game since October 19, stringing together a two-game winning streak against the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns, with a Week 9 bye in between.
However, as they head into a primetime showcase, head coach Aaron Glenn and his squad face a major test. They will have to figure things out on Thursday Night Football against the New England Patriots without Wilson’s services.
Who Will Jets QB Justin Fields Have Available Without Garrett Wilson on Thursday?
Wilson, who was ruled out for Thursday Night Football with a knee injury, has been a staple on a roster that has otherwise struggled. In seven games this season, he has been a reliable target, recording 36 receptions for 395 yards and four touchdowns. He has fumbled only once, and his longest reception was for 33 yards, though the Jets have not utilized him in the run game this year.
Fortunately for New York, Wilson is the primary weapon that Fields will be missing. Backup running back Khalil Herbert is listed as questionable for the primetime matchup, but the rest of the key players are expected to be available. In Wilson’s absence, Fields will primarily turn to wideouts Isaiah Williams, Tyler Johnson, and Allen Lazard to carry the load in the passing attack.
In his complementary role across seven games, Williams has put up four catches for 35 yards. Johnson, meanwhile, has been more involved, catching 10 passes for 187 yards and a touchdown in his eight appearances, including a long gain of 35 yards. Lazard has also settled into a rotational spot, recording seven catches for 45 yards and one score in his six games.
Given the circumstances, the Jets could lean heavily on their ground game, just as they did against the Browns. This approach means Fields will have plenty of support from running backs Breece Hall and Isaiah Davis. Hall has been one of the few bright spots on offense this season, carrying the ball 138 times for 664 yards and two touchdowns. His performance includes an average of 4.8 yards per touch and a longest carry of 35 yards.
Beyond his work on the ground, Hall has also been a tremendous help in the passing game. He has totaled 22 receptions for 220 yards and another score, with his longest gain stretching 42 yards. Behind him, Davis has slotted nicely into a complementary role.
On just 20 carries, he has gained 119 yards, highlighted by a breakaway run competiçãoof 50 yards. He’s also contributed through the air, recording 15 catches for 118 yards in nine games.
With a clear picture of the weapons Fields has to work with, all eyes will be on how he handles the high-flying Patriots on Thursday night.