Garrett Wilson’s streak of consecutive 1,000-yard seasons is over at three.
The Jets shut down Wilson for the final three games of the season, head coach Aaron Glenn announced before Friday’s practice. Wilson has been on injured reserve since Nov. 13 and has missed seven of the past eight games with a knee injury, but he still could lead the Jets in receiving for a fourth straight year.
“Garrett is doing a really good job in his rehab, but what we’re going to do, in talking to the docs and talking to him, is we’re going to hold him out for the rest of the season,” Glenn said. “And he will be ready to go as the offseason program starts up. And I’m excited about that.”
Wilson will finish with 36 catches for 395 yards and four touchdowns in seven games. Sidelined rookie tight end Mason Taylor (369 yards) is closest to catching Wilson.
It was a disappointing season for Wilson after signing a four-year, $130 million extension just before training camp. But the Jets are weighing Wilson’s future impact (he is under contract through 2030) against what he can add to a 3-11 team in the short term.
The Jets shut down Garrett Wilson for the rest of the season. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
“We just felt it was best for him and for us as a team,” Glenn said. “He’s on board. He’s going to be smart with his rehab. He’s a key cog in what we’re doing here.”
Glenn did not make a decision on whether Justin Fields or Tyrod Taylor — who began the season as No. 1 and No. 2, respectively, on the QB depth chart — would backup rookie Brady Cook against the Saints Sunday, but evidence points to Taylor.
Both Fields (knee) and Taylor (groin/knee) are listed as questionable. Taylor was a full participant Friday, while Fields was limited.
Taylor: “I feel good. I know I’m ready. I showed that all year.”
Fields: “I don’t think I’ll be ready by Sunday.”
Taylor is expected back next week despite dealing with a neck injury, Glenn said.
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“Obviously when you are talking about a neck, it’s something that you have to look in on,” Glenn added, “but he’ll be just fine.”
The Jets signed QB Hendon Hooker to the practice squad, taking the spot of the released Adrian Martinez. The former third-round pick was with Glenn in Detroit but was cut by the Panthers earlier this season.
“Just in case — both quarterbacks, if they didn’t have a chance that can actually make it, we still got somebody in the holder,” Glenn said. “Plus, he’s a good player. If you look at his stats and the way he throws the ball, he’s a talent. We want to make sure we want to try to develop that talent.”