Tyrod Taylor made his first start as a New York Jet on Sunday, where he sparked a late rally that ultimately fell short in the squad’s 29-27 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Speaking to reporters following the team’s loss, Jets wide receiver and offensive captain Garrett Wilson backed the veteran’s performance, praising his poise and collectiveness.
“He’s just collected, (and) no matter what the situation is, he’s going to rally the troops,” said Wilson.
Taylor completed 26 of his 36 passing attempts (72%) for 197 yards while throwing for two touchdowns and an interception. He also added 48 rushing yards on eight carries, while he was often forced out of the pocket.
His interception was a costly pick-six right before halftime, extending Tampa Bay’s lead to three scores before the break. On the misfire, Wilson was the intended target.
“In that first half, I gotta be better for him. I gotta keep that pick-six from happening,” said the newly-extended wide receiver. “I gotta attack the ball, so things that will get fixed this week.”
Wilson led the way for New York with 10 receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown. Taylor, despite an uneven first half, steadied the offense and delivered in key moments after halftime.
Filling in for the injured Justin Fields, it’s unclear whether the veteran will remain under center next week when the Jets seek their first win under head coach Aaron Glenn in a Monday night matchup against the division-rival, winless Miami Dolphins.