Clint Lamb
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When you are a rookie quarterback, one of your first priorities should be earning the respect of your teammates. Making a favorable impression early can be crucial to how you’re viewed in the locker room.
That is something that first-year Jets quarterback Zach Wilson is taking to heart. Since the only other quarterbacks on the team are James Morgan and Mike White, Wilson may be the opening day starter. In order to give himself the best chance to succeed out of the gate, he’ll need respect and immediate chemistry with his new teammates.
According to Dennis Waszak with the Associated Press, the No. 2 overall pick in last month’s NFL draft is wasting no team getting acclimated and trying to earn that respect. Wilson has been connecting with his new teammates as often as possible, and it’s making a difference.
“Talking to him on the phone, I could tell he’s like a general just by what he was saying,” said the team’s second-round pick, wide receiver Elijah Moore, via Yahoo Sports. “He’s super excited to be here as well. His passion comes out through the phone.”
Wilson’s new weapons aren’t his only priority though. Getting acquainted with his protection is important as well. Fellow first-round rookie, USC offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker, is one of those new pieces, as is last year’s first-round pick Mekhi Brown.
“He wants to get to know us,” said Vera-Tucker, the No. 14 overall pick. “Bring us all in and turn this organization around.”
The veterans on the team, including several on offense, have been reaching out to him as well. That lists includes newly-signed Corey Davis, second-year receiver Denzel Mims and tight end Chris Herndon. The connections early can make a world of difference once the training camp portion of the offseason arrives.
How good will the Jets be in Year 1 under Wilson? That remains to be seen, as there’s still a lot of work to be done. But the foundation is there, and this season is about establishing what the future could look like under the new starting quarterback.
Follow Clint Lamb on Twitter @ClintRLamb.
