Garrett Wilson Injury: Will Jets WR Return First Eligible Week?

The New York Jets are currently dealing with a challenging season marked by injuries, particularly involving star wide receiver Garrett Wilson. After aggravating a knee injury during a game against Cleveland, Wilson has been placed on injured reserve. This situation raises questions about his potential return during the season.

Garrett Wilson Injury Overview

Wilson’s knee issues began in Week 6 during a loss against Denver. He missed the subsequent Weeks 7 and 8, but the Jets’ bye in Week 9 allowed him some additional recovery time. He made a return in Week 10 but unfortunately didn’t register a catch from his three targets before re-injuring his knee.

Details of the Injury

During Week 10, Wilson attempted to make a diving catch on a deep pass from quarterback Justin Fields. After landing awkwardly, he exited the game with roughly seven minutes left in the third quarter. Despite trying to return after spending time in the medical tent, he was unable to continue and was confirmed by head coach Aaron Glenn to have re-injured the same knee that had already caused him to miss two games.

Injury Status and Implications

• Wilson has been placed on injured reserve and will miss at least four games.
• Initially reported to be out for 3-4 weeks, Wilson is already three games into his mandatory absence.
• He is ineligible to play during Week 14, making updates on his status unlikely this week.

Assuming the initial recovery timeline is accurate, Wilson could return in Week 15, coinciding with the start of the fantasy football playoffs. However, given the Jets’ positioning in the season, they might opt to keep him sidelined for the remainder of the year, prioritizing his health for future seasons.

Coach’s Comments

Despite the team’s struggles, Coach Glenn expressed optimism about Wilson’s potential return this season. He noted, “I think he’ll play,” although he clarified that the final decision would depend on medical professionals. This perspective could change if the team’s playoff hopes diminish further.

Fantasy Outlook

Wilson’s recurring knee issues have raised concerns among fantasy football managers who hoped to utilize him as a WR2. So far, he has missed five games this season, and his absence may jeopardize his viability for the remainder of the fantasy season.

• With his recent performance struggles and ongoing injury, Wilson may become a drop candidate for many fantasy teams.
• If he occupies a valuable roster spot and the playoffs are a priority, releasing him might be a prudent decision.

Alternative Options

If Wilson remains sidelined, teammates Tyler Johnson, John Metchie, and Adonai Mitchell will continue to shoulder the receiving responsibilities. Mitchell’s role has recently expanded, and Metchie has shown sporadic production, bolstered by touchdowns.

As the Jets adjust their offensive strategy, they have turned to Tyrod Taylor at quarterback. If Wilson returns, his prospects for fantasy relevance could improve, but the overall performance of the offense remains a concern.