A New Jersey native will be under center for the Jets when they open their season on Sunday, September 11, at East Rutherford’s MetLife Stadium.
Quarterback Joe Flacco has been named the team’s starter by head coach Robert Saleh, as sophomore signal-caller Zach Wilson is recovering from knee issues that will keep him out until at least Week 4. That means Flacco, who is from Audubon and starred at Audubon High School, should get an extended look as the team’s No. 1 quarterback.
“We just made the decision that [Wilson’s] not quite ready, and we’re rolling with Joe,” Saleh said in a Wednesday press conference. He added that Wilson will not return until he is feeling “110 percent.”
Flacco’s first test of the season comes against a familiar opponent, the Baltimore Ravens. Flacco spent the first 11 years of his career with the Ravens from 2008–2018, before moving on to the Broncos, Jets and Eagles. Flacco won Super Bowl XLVII and the game’s MVP award with Baltimore.
Flacco and the Jets visit the Cleveland Browns in Week 2 and host the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 3. The team then travels to Pittsburgh for a matchup with the Steelers in Week 4. That game could mark Wilson’s return.
Wilson, 23, is expected to reclaim his status as the Jets’ starter once he’s fully healthy, which means Flacco’s time running Gang Green’s offense will likely be limited to just a few games. At age 37, this could be one of Flacco’s last prolonged runs as a starter in the NFL.
“He’s been preparing,” Saleh said of the 15-year veteran. “He’s freaking awesome, and I’m really excited for him and his opportunity.”
While Flacco tries to lead the Jets to a Week 1 win, the Giants will start their season in Tennessee against the Titans on Sunday. The Jets play at 1 pm, while Big Blue plays at 4:25 pm.