Zach Wilson has entered the journeyman stage of his career, having signed a one-year contract with the Miami Dolphins to act as the backup for Tua Tagovailoa. Nevertheless, despite his present position, Wilson maintains a strong belief in his capacity to lead a team and is convinced that he still possesses significant potential as a starting quarterback in the NFL.

Wilson continues to view himself as a starting quarterback

Despite signing as a reserve, Wilson asserts that he possesses the capability to be a starting quarterback in the league. “I still believe I can be a starter in this league whenever that opportunity arises,” Wilson stated on Monday, as reported by the Associated Press. “Therefore, I strive to position myself with the best team and coaches, and to perform to the best of my abilities.”

Wilson’s path in the NFL has been fraught with challenges. The New York Jets selected him second overall in 2021, with the expectation that he would become their franchise quarterback. However, his time with the team was marked by inconsistency, coaching changes, and a constant shift in offensive strategies.

Over the course of three seasons, he started 33 games, achieving a completion rate of 57% with 6,293 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and 25 interceptions. His growth was further impeded by organizational instability, frequent roster changes, and the high expectations he struggled to fulfill.

His last season with the Jets proved to be especially difficult, as he was often benched following Aaron Rodgers’ season-ending injury. The mounting pressure and scrutiny intensified as Wilson found himself alternating in and out of the lineup, making it challenging to find a consistent rhythm.

A Period of Education in Denver

After leaving New York, Wilson joined the Denver Broncos for the 2024 season. Although he did not participate in any regular-season games, serving as a backup to rookie Bo Nix, his experience under head coach Sean Payton was immensely beneficial.

Wilson took full advantage of the chance to learn from one of the most esteemed offensive strategists in the league, concentrating on the intricacies of the quarterback position and enhancing critical elements of his performance. 

“Processing in the NFL, pocket awareness, the ability to navigate my progressions more fluidly and release the ball quickly, along with my overall understanding of the game, has significantly improved since my rookie year,” Wilson remarked. 

Even without game time, Wilson’s tenure in Denver provided him with an opportunity to reset both mentally and physically, equipping him with a renewed outlook as he readied himself for future prospects.

A New Beginning in Miami

Now a member of the Miami Dolphins, Wilson is enthusiastic about furthering his growth under head coach Mike McDaniel. The Dolphins feature one of the most dynamic offenses in the league, and Wilson is thrilled to be part of the innovative system that has contributed to Tagovailoa’s success. 

“What’s not to like?” he remarked. “It’s an incredibly explosive offense. They excel at what they do, starting with Coach McDaniel and extending throughout the team. You can see how much Tua has progressed since he arrived. I’m just eager to join those players.”

In Miami, Wilson will have the chance to collaborate with exceptional playmakers such as Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, while also honing his skills in a quarterback-friendly environment. Although he recognizes that Tagovailoa is firmly established as the starting quarterback, Wilson is ready to seize any opportunity that may come his way.

The Function of a Backup Quarterback

For the Dolphins, the optimal situation would be for Tagovailoa to maintain his health throughout the season, allowing Wilson to function in a supportive capacity. Nevertheless, given the unpredictable nature of the NFL, injuries remain a constant risk. Should Tagovailoa be sidelined, Wilson may find himself back in the spotlight.

The importance of a backup quarterback cannot be overstated in the current NFL landscape. Numerous teams have experienced setbacks in their seasons due to insufficient depth at this position. For Wilson, this necessitates a commitment to being both mentally and physically prepared at all times, diligently studying the playbook, and ensuring he is ready to step in when needed.

Is Wilson Capable of Emulating the Success of Previous Jets Quarterbacks?

Wilson is not the first former Jets quarterback to pursue success in a different environment. In recent years, players such as Geno Smith and Sam Darnold have revitalized their careers after departing from New York, demonstrating that a change in location can significantly impact one’s performance. 

Geno Smith, initially dismissed as a failure, rejuvenated his career in Seattle, ultimately earning a Pro Bowl selection. Although Sam Darnold has not yet reclaimed a full-time starting position, he has continued to secure roles as a reliable backup and occasional starter. Wilson aspires to join this group, aiming to demonstrate that he still possesses the skills necessary to be a starting quarterback in the league.

The Path Forward for Wilson

As he approaches the 2025 season with the Dolphins, Wilson is committed to personal growth and future readiness. He understands that opportunities in the NFL can emerge suddenly, and he is resolute in his preparation for when that moment arrives. 

“The most significant lesson I’ve learned throughout my career is that circumstances can shift rapidly,” Wilson stated. “It’s essential to remain prepared, maintain confidence, and keep working hard. That’s precisely my intention.”

While it remains uncertain whether Wilson will receive another opportunity as a full-time starter, his mindset and dedication indicate that he is not relinquishing his ambitions anytime soon. Given the right environment and conditions, he may still have the chance to demonstrate his abilities on the grandest stage.

Expert Editorial Comment 

Zach Wilson’s path in the NFL has been far from simple, yet his self-confidence has remained steadfast. Although he currently serves as a backup for the Dolphins, he is dedicated to honing his abilities and remaining ready for his next chance.

Drawing from his previous experiences and with a new beginning in Miami, Wilson is poised to tackle whatever lies ahead. History has demonstrated that quarterbacks who are prematurely dismissed frequently discover avenues for resurgence, and Wilson is resolute in becoming the next success story.