Zach Wilson Primed for Breakout 2022 Season - MVP Dark Horse?

Zach Wilson: The Next Big Thing in the NFL?

The 2022 NFL season is right around the corner and one of the biggest storylines to follow is the potential emergence of New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson. The second overall pick in the 2021 draft showed flashes of brilliance during his rookie campaign, leaving many to wonder if he can take the next step and become an elite NFL signal caller in year two.

There are plenty of reasons to be excited about Zach Wilson's outlook this season. He has all the physical tools - arm strength, accuracy, mobility - to thrive in today's pass-happy league. We saw glimpses of his playmaking ability last season when he would extend plays with his legs and fire lasers downfield. However, there were also predictable struggles for the rookie QB as he adjusted to the speed and complexity of the NFL.

Why Zach Wilson is Primed for a Breakout

The Jets have set Zach Wilson up for success heading into 2022. They added playmakers in free agency and the draft, including tight ends CJ Uzomah and Tyler Conklin. First round pick Garrett Wilson and second round pick Breece Hall inject explosiveness into the offense. There will be no more excuses - Wilson now has the talent around him to unlock his vast potential.

Having a year under his belt is also huge. NFL defenders admitted that Wilson's arm talent and off-platform throws gave them problems. Now that he has a season of experience reading complex defenses, he should be able to anticipate throws and process information faster. Increased comfort and confidence will allow his natural ability to shine through.

Wilson has received rave reviews for his work ethic and leadership during the offseason. Coaches and teammates alike have praised his commitment to improving his craft. He spent significant time strengthening his lower body to enhance his throwing power. The team has rallied around their young quarterback, energized by his tireless preparation.

Concerns About Wilson in 2022

Of course, it's not all sunshine and rainbows for Zach Wilson entering his second NFL campaign. There remain areas of concern in his game that could hinder his development.

First and foremost is his propensity for turnovers. Wilson threw 11 interceptions in just 13 games as a rookie, frequently trying to force balls into dangerous windows. He will need to improve his risk management and learn to take what the defense gives him. Turnovers could derail an otherwise productive season.

The Jets offensive line also remains an issue. Wilson was sacked 44 times last season, constantly under duress. New York upgraded at guard by signing Laken Tomlinson but question marks remain at tackle. Lackluster protection could limit Wilson's ability to push the ball downfield.

Injuries are also a worry after Wilson missed four games with a PCL sprain in 2021. The Jets can't afford to lose their franchise QB for an extended stretch this season. Wilson will need to be judicious when scrambling to avoid huge hits.

Why Zach Wilson is a Good Bet in 2022

Although Wilson faces obstacles in his development, there are plenty of reasons to be bullish on the young quarterback this season. The physical gifts jump off the screen whenever he takes the field. Arm strength is the most coveted asset for an NFL signal caller and Wilson has it in spades. He can flick the ball 50+ yards downfield without straining. Not many players on the planet can make the types of off-platform throws Wilson consistently uncorks. He already flashes rare touch and accuracy down the field at age 23.

Mobility is another key asset for Wilson. He rushed for 185 yards last season and made defenders miss with ease. The ability to extend plays and pick up first downs with his legs adds an extra dimension to his game. Given the deficiencies up front, Wilson's elusiveness could be a difference maker.

By all accounts, Zach Wilson is a gym rat - obsessed with perfecting his mechanics and developing his skills. He has clearly dedicated himself to honing his footwork and upper body strength this offseason. Wilson's work ethic paired with his competitive drive gives him a very high floor at the NFL level. He may never be Patrick Mahomes but his intangibles suggest a very solid career at minimum.

Wilson's2022 Outlook

Expectations need to be kept in check for a 23-year-old quarterback with 13 NFL starts under his belt. There will inevitably be more growing pains along the way for Zach Wilson. However, the upside is obvious to anyone who watches him play. He clearly has the ability to develop into a top-tier starting QB.

The key for Wilson will be continuing his development as a decision maker within the structure of the Jets offense. If he takes care of the football and relies less on improvisation, the production will follow. The upgraded weapons around him should help Wilson play a more disciplined game in 2022.

Don't be surprised if the Jets flirt with a Wild Card spot this season. That may be asking too much of this young team but Wilson seems primed to take a major step forward. 25+ touchdowns and a passer rating over 90 is not out of the question if he stays healthy. Jets fans have suffered long enough - they finally appear to have their franchise savior under center.

Zach Wilson 2022 MVP Odds

According to most sportsbooks, Wilson is currently listed around 100/1 odds to take home NFL MVP honors in 2022. This places him around 25th in terms of the MVP futures market. While his chances are admittedly slim, those odds seem disproportionately low for a player with Wilson's potential.

We have seen massive leaps in year two from former top draft picks like Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson. Wilson has similar elite traits - armed with another year developing chemistry with his receivers and learning Mike LaFleur's offense, he could post monster numbers. On a per game basis, something like 4,000 passing yards and 30 touchdowns is achievable for a player of Wilson's caliber.

The main concern around Wilson's MVP odds is team success. Even if Wilson posts gaudy stats, he likely needs to lead the Jets to 10+ wins and a playoff berth to have any MVP chance. New York did add a lot of talent this offseason so a bigger leap than expected is possible. But banking on a young rebuilding team to morph into a contender overnight is risky.

Still, 100/1 represents tremendous value on an ascending talent like Wilson. Crazier things have happened in the NFL - a $100 bet could turn into a massive ten thousand dollar payout. The offense should run through Wilson this season, giving him high volume and highlight reel moments. If the Jets surprise people and finish around .500, their young quarterback could find himself firmly in the MVP mix.

The Verdict

All signs point toward Zach Wilson making "the leap" in 2022. He came into the league with the passing ability and confidence of a future star. Now in year two, Wilson has the supporting cast and experience to put his skills on full display. 25+ touchdowns and 250+ rushing yards are reasonable benchmarks for the blossoming signal caller.

There will inevitably be some wildcards, namely turnovers and injuries. But Wilson clearly has the talent to overcome adversity. Expect his big arm and playmaking flair to take center stage this season - he has legitimate top ten quarterback potential moving forward.

The Jets finally appear to have their franchise centerpiece. And make no mistake, Zach Wilson has the ability to develop into a superstar. Betting on him to claim league MVP honors anytime in the next five years seems like a smart wager. Strap in Jets fans - the future is blindingly bright with your young gunslinger at the helm. The ascent begins this season.

FAQs

What were Zach Wilson's stats as a rookie?

In 13 games as a rookie in 2021, Zach Wilson threw for 2,334 yards, 9 touchdowns and 11 interceptions while completing 55.6% of his passes. He also rushed for 185 yards and 4 rushing touchdowns.

What is Zach Wilson's potential in 2022?

Wilson has the potential for a major breakout in his second NFL season. With improved weapons like Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall, and increased comfort in the offense, Wilson could realistically throw for 4,000+ yards and 25+ touchdowns if he stays healthy.

What are Zach Wilson's strengths as a QB?

Wilson's main strengths are his arm talent, mobility, and fearlessness. He can make every throw with velocity and touch. He also rushes for yards when plays break down. Wilson plays with confidence.

What does Zach Wilson need to improve?

Wilson's main areas for improvement are reducing turnovers and staying healthy. He tends to force risky throws and needs to be smarter with his decision making. Staying on the field is also key after missing time as a rookie.

Can the Jets make the playoffs with Zach Wilson in 2022?

The Jets likely need at least 10 wins to make the playoffs in the tough AFC. While unlikely for such a young team, if Wilson takes a major leap forward, the improved roster could surprise some people and contend for a Wild Card spot.