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Zach Wilson
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Zachary Kapono Wilson (born August 3, 1999) is an American professional football quarterback for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the BYU Cougars and was selected second overall by the New York Jets in the 2021 NFL draft. Wilson served as the Jets' starter during his first three seasons, but inconsistent play led to him being traded to the Denver Broncos in 2024. He joined the Dolphins the following season.
Key Information
Early life
[edit]Wilson was born in Draper, Utah,[1][2] on August 3, 1999.[3] He attended Corner Canyon High School, where he played high school football.[4] He passed for 2,986 yards and 24 touchdowns while also rushing for 752 yards and eight touchdowns as a senior. Wilson originally committed to play quarterback at Boise State University before later decommitting and choosing to attend Brigham Young University (BYU).[5]
College career
[edit]As a true freshman at BYU in 2018, Wilson played in nine games and made seven starts.[6] He started his first career game against the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors, becoming the youngest quarterback to start a game for BYU.[7] He finished the season having completed 120 of 182 passes for 1,578 yards with 12 touchdowns and three interceptions.[8] He was named the MVP of the 2018 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl after completing all 18 of his passes for 317 yards and four touchdowns in the 49–18 victory over the Western Michigan Broncos.[9]
As a sophomore in 2019, Wilson started nine games, completing 199 of 319 passes for 2,382 yards, 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions.[10][11] That season, the Cougars were invited to the 2019 Hawaii Bowl, where Wilson was named BYU's MVP in the Cougars' 38–34 loss to the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors.[12]
As a junior in 2020, Wilson started 12 games and completed 247 of 336 passes for 3,692 yards, 33 touchdowns and three interceptions while rushing for 255 yards and 10 touchdowns, breaking Steve Young's school completion percentage in a season at 73.5 percent.[3][13][14] He helped lead BYU to a 10–1 regular season mark.[15] He was named the offensive MVP of the 2020 Boca Raton Bowl after completing 26 of 34 passes for 425 yards and three touchdowns in the 49–23 victory over the UCF Knights.[16] He and USC safety Talanoa Hufanga were selected as recipients of the 2020 Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award.[3]
College statistics
[edit]_Cougars_24,_University_of_Arizona_Wildcats_16,_Allegiant_Stadium,_Las_Vegas,_Nevada_(51426850531).jpg)
| Season | Team | Games | Passing | Rushing | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Cmp | Att | Pct | Yds | TD | Int | Rtg | Att | Yds | Avg | TD | ||
| 2018 | BYU | 9 | 7 | 120 | 182 | 65.9 | 1,578 | 12 | 3 | 157.2 | 75 | 221 | 2.9 | 2 |
| 2019 | BYU | 9 | 9 | 199 | 319 | 62.4 | 2,382 | 11 | 9 | 130.8 | 68 | 186 | 2.7 | 3 |
| 2020 | BYU | 12 | 12 | 247 | 336 | 73.5 | 3,692 | 33 | 3 | 196.4 | 72 | 286 | 4.0 | 10 |
| Career | 30 | 28 | 566 | 837 | 67.6 | 7,652 | 56 | 15 | 162.9 | 215 | 693 | 3.2 | 15 | |
Professional career
[edit]| Height | Weight | Arm length | Hand span | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 ft 2+1⁄8 in (1.88 m) |
214 lb (97 kg) |
30+5⁄8 in (0.78 m) |
9+1⁄2 in (0.24 m) | |||||||||
| All values from Pro Day[17][18][19] | ||||||||||||
New York Jets
[edit]2021
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A top quarterback prospect in the 2021 NFL draft, Wilson was selected second overall by the New York Jets. He was the second of five quarterbacks taken in the first round and the highest-ever drafted from BYU.[20][21] Wilson signed a four-year deal on July 29, 2021, that was worth $35.15 million fully guaranteed, along with a $22.9 million signing bonus and a fifth year option.[22][23]
In his debut against the Carolina Panthers, Wilson had an interception in the first half, but finished with 258 passing yards, two touchdowns, and a rushing 2-point conversion in the 19–14 defeat.[24] During the Jets' home opener in Week 2, Wilson threw four interceptions against the New England Patriots, including on his first two pass attempts. The Jets subsequently lost 25–6.[25]
Following a 26–0 shutout loss to the Denver Broncos, in which he threw for 160 yards and two interceptions, Wilson earned his first career win against the Tennessee Titans in Week 4. Wilson had one interception, but also threw two touchdowns and completed 21 of 34 passes for 297 yards. One of his touchdowns was a 53-yard pass to wide receiver Corey Davis that gave the Jets a 24–17 lead in the fourth quarter, with the team going on to win 27–24 in overtime.[26] Wilson threw his ninth interception during a Week 5 defeat to the Atlanta Falcons, making him the fourth NFL quarterback after DeShone Kizer, Zach Mettenberger, and Blake Bortles to be intercepted in each of his first five starts.[27]
During Week 7 against the Patriots, Wilson suffered a knee injury in the second quarter after being hit by linebacker Matthew Judon. He was ruled out for the remainder of the game, with Mike White replacing him in the 54–13 loss.[28] Following the defeat, it was announced that Wilson had a sprained posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, which caused him to miss four games.[29] Wilson returned in Week 12 and won his first road game over the Houston Texans. He also scored his first rushing touchdown during the game.[30] Wilson lost four of his last five matchups, with his final win of the season coming against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 16.[31] However, he improved his turnover differential by not throwing an interception in the five games.[32] Wilson finished his rookie season with 2,334 passing yards, nine passing touchdowns, 11 interceptions, and a 3–10 record.[33]
2022
[edit]Wilson missed the first three games of 2022 season due to a non-contact bone bruise and meniscus tear he suffered in the preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles.[34] He made his season debut in Week 4 against the Pittsburgh Steelers and despite throwing two interceptions, had a 2-yard receiving touchdown from wide receiver Braxton Berrios and led the Jets on a fourth quarter comeback drive to secure the 24–20 victory.[35] The victory began a four-game winning streak for the Jets, although Wilson did not throw a touchdown pass in his next three games.[36] New York's streak ended with a 22–17 loss to the Patriots, in which Wilson had a career-high 355 passing yards and two touchdowns, but also three interceptions.[37] Wilson rebounded the following week when he completed 18 of 25 passes for 154 yards and a touchdown to help secure a 20–17 upset over the Buffalo Bills.[38]
After completing only 9 of 22 passes in a 10–3 loss to the Patriots the next game, Wilson was criticized for not attributing the loss to his performance.[39] Wilson was subsequently demoted to the third-string backup behind Mike White and second-string backup Joe Flacco.[40] Ahead of Week 15, he was promoted to the second option and started the Jets' next two games due to an injury to White.[41] However, after struggling against the Jacksonville Jaguars during Week 16, Wilson was benched for Chris Streveler in the Jets' eventual 19–3 defeat.[42] Wilson was demoted back to third-string behind White and Flacco following White's return and did not take the field again for the remainder of the season.[43]
2023
[edit]After the Jets acquired four-time MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers, Wilson was named Rodgers' backup for the 2023 season, but took the field in the Week 1 Monday Night Football matchup against the Bills when Rodgers suffered a season-ending injury on his first drive.[44] Wilson completed 14 of 21 passes for 140 yards, a touchdown, and an interception in the 22–16 victory.[45] He was subsequently promoted to starting quarterback.[46] After struggling in his first two starts of the season,[47] Wilson had a strong performance against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday Night Football, throwing for 245 yards and 2 touchdowns to overcome a 17–0 deficit to tie the game at 20.[48] However, he lost a fumble in the fourth quarter that allowed Kansas City to win 23–20.[49]
Wilson led the Jets to three straight wins the following weeks, including an upset win over the reigning NFC champion Philadelphia Eagles, as well as driving 58 yards in 24 seconds with no timeouts on the game-tying drive against the Giants.[50] However, following three weeks of struggles, Wilson was benched for Tim Boyle late in the third quarter of a 32–6 Week 11 loss to the Buffalo Bills. He finished the game completing 7 of 15 passes for 81 yards and an interception, although he threw the Jets' first touchdown in 13 quarters of play.[51] Following the Bills loss, Wilson was demoted to third-string quarterback behind Boyle and Trevor Siemian.[52]
After losing both games Boyle started in, the Jets released Boyle and renamed Wilson as their starter for Week 14 against the Texans.[53] In his return, Wilson completed 27 of 36 passes for 301 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions as the Jets won 30–6. He also finished the game with a 117.9 passer rating, the highest mark of his career.[54] Wilson was named American Football Conference Offensive Player of the Week for his performance.[55] The following week against the Miami Dolphins, Wilson suffered a concussion during the second quarter and did not return. He was later ruled out for the remainder of the season.[56]
Denver Broncos
[edit]On April 23, 2024, the Denver Broncos announced that they had acquired Wilson and a 2024 seventh-round pick (No. 256; Nick Gargiulo) from the Jets in exchange for a 2024 sixth-round pick (No. 203; the Minnesota Vikings selected Will Reichard).[57] The Broncos declined the fifth-year option on Wilson's contract, making him a free agent after the 2024 season.[58] Denver announced that Wilson would begin the season as the team’s third string quarterback, behind Bo Nix and Jarrett Stidham.[59] He did not appear in a game during the season.
Miami Dolphins
[edit]On March 17, 2025, Wilson signed a one-year, $6 million deal with the Miami Dolphins.[60][61]
NFL career statistics
[edit]| Legend | |
|---|---|
| Led the league | |
| Bold | Career high |
| Year | Team | Games | Passing | Rushing | Sacks | Fumbles | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Record | Cmp | Att | Pct | Yds | Y/A | Lng | TD | Int | Rtg | Att | Yds | Y/A | Lng | TD | Sck | Yds | Fum | Lost | ||
| 2021 | NYJ | 13 | 13 | 3–10 | 213 | 383 | 55.6 | 2,334 | 6.1 | 54 | 9 | 11 | 69.7 | 29 | 185 | 6.4 | 52 | 4 | 44 | 370 | 5 | 1 |
| 2022 | NYJ | 9 | 9 | 5–4 | 132 | 242 | 54.5 | 1,688 | 7.0 | 79 | 6 | 7 | 72.8 | 28 | 102 | 3.6 | 18 | 1 | 23 | 175 | 1 | 1 |
| 2023 | NYJ | 12 | 11 | 4–7 | 221 | 368 | 60.1 | 2,271 | 6.2 | 68 | 8 | 7 | 77.2 | 36 | 211 | 5.9 | 20 | 0 | 46 | 340 | 11 | 7 |
| 2024 | DEN | 0 | 0 | — | DNP | |||||||||||||||||
| Career | 34 | 33 | 12–21 | 566 | 993 | 57.0 | 6,293 | 6.3 | 79 | 23 | 25 | 73.2 | 93 | 498 | 5.4 | 52 | 5 | 113 | 885 | 17 | 9 | |
Personal life
[edit]Wilson was born to Michael and Lisa Wilson (née Neeleman) and has three brothers, one of whom is college quarterback Isaac Wilson, and two sisters.[62][8] He is part Hawaiian on his father's side, with his middle name Kapono meaning "righteous" in the Hawaiian language.[3][8] Some other members of his family include airline entrepreneur David Neeleman and HealthEquity co-founder Stephen Neeleman.[8]
Wilson was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a child, a trait that runs in his family.[8][63] Wilson was baptized as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He has said that he "didn't grow up active in the church [and] was never really a churchgoer..." He considers himself a spiritual person, telling Deseret News "I have always had a good relationship with God in my life."[63]
Wilson has been friends with former BYU Cougars teammate Dax Milne since childhood.[64]
In June 2024, Wilson announced his engagement to girlfriend Nicolette Dellanno.[65] On June 28, 2025, Wilson and Nicolette were married in New York City.[66]
References
[edit]- ^ "A conversation with Zach Wilson: Former BYU QB on his demotion to NY Jets backup, his girlfriend, his golf game, his summer plans, and more". Deseret News. June 20, 2023. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ Harper, Mitch (January 5, 2021). "Zach Wilson Moves Into Breathtaking California Home To Prepare For NFL Draft". KSL Sports. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ a b c d Lundquist, Casey (January 12, 2021). "Zach Wilson Named 2020 Polynesian Player of the Year". Sports Illustrated. Retrieved March 12, 2021.
- ^ Greene, Dana (January 8, 2021). "Zach Wilson's meteoric rise to the NFL started at Corner Canyon". KTVX. Retrieved March 12, 2023.
- ^ Butler, Eric (December 21, 2017). "Corner Canyon star QB Zach Wilson signs with BYU". The Salt Lake Tribune. Retrieved September 15, 2021.
- ^ "Zach Wilson 2018 Game Log". Sports Reference. Retrieved March 12, 2023.
- ^ Call, Jeff (October 13, 2018). "Zach Wilson becomes youngest QB to start at BYU". Deseret News. Retrieved September 15, 2021.
- ^ a b c d e Robinson, Doug (April 22, 2021). "'All about family': How those closest to Zach Wilson – Ute fans to the core – influenced his football trajectory and played a hand in landing him at BYU". Deseret News. Retrieved September 15, 2021.
- ^ Nothaft, Patrick (December 22, 2018). "BYU QB Zach Wilson a perfect 18 for 18 in Idaho Potato Bowl win over WMU". mlive. Retrieved September 15, 2021.
- ^ Drew, Jay (June 22, 2020). "A 'bigger, faster, stronger' Zach Wilson returns to BYU workouts eager to reclaim his starting quarterback position". Deseret News. Retrieved September 15, 2021.
- ^ Gonzalez, Norma (March 2, 2020). "Zach Wilson is still BYU's starting QB, but he may have to fight for his job to keep it". The Salt Lake Tribune. Retrieved September 16, 2021.
- ^ Shimabuku, Christian (December 24, 2019). "Rainbow Warriors reach 10-win mark with last-minute 38–34 win over BYU in Hawaii Bowl". KHON-TV. Retrieved December 14, 2020.
- ^ Lloyd, Jared (October 2, 2020). "How BYU QB Zach Wilson is slicing up defenses early in 2020". Daily Herald. Archived from the original on October 8, 2020. Retrieved September 15, 2021.
- ^ "Zach Wilson 2020 Game Log". Sports Reference. Retrieved March 12, 2023.
- ^ "2020 Brigham Young Cougars Schedule and Results". Sports Reference. Retrieved March 12, 2023.
- ^ "Boca Raton Bowl – UCF vs BYU Box Score, December 22, 2020". Sports Reference. Retrieved January 3, 2022.
- ^ Zierlein, Lance. "Zach Wilson Draft and Combine Prospect Profile". NFL. Retrieved February 4, 2022.
- ^ "Zach Wilson, Brigham Young, QB, 2021 NFL Draft Scout, NCAA College Football". draftscout.com. Retrieved February 4, 2022.
- ^ "Zach Wilson 2021 NFL Draft Profile". ESPN. Retrieved February 4, 2022.
- ^ Lange, Randy (April 29, 2021). "No Secret: Jets Select QB Zach Wilson with No. 2 Pick of NFL Draft". New York Jets. Retrieved April 29, 2021.
- ^ McCombs, Robby (April 29, 2021). "NFL Draft: Zach Wilson Drafted #2 By New York Jets". Vanquish The Foe. Retrieved March 12, 2023.
- ^ Lange, Randy (July 29, 2021). "Jets Sign QB Zach Wilson, No. 2 Overall Pick in the 2021 NFL Draft". New York Jets. Retrieved July 29, 2021.
- ^ Cimini, Rich (July 29, 2021). "New York Jets' Zach Wilson signs rookie deal after missing first 2 days of practice, sources say". ESPN. Retrieved July 29, 2021.
- ^ Cimini, Rich (September 12, 2021). "New York Jets rookie QB Zach Wilson sacked 6 times but rallies in NFL debut defeat to Carolina Panthers". ESPN. Retrieved September 12, 2021.
- ^ Rapp, Timothy (September 19, 2021). "Mac Jones, Patriots Cruise to Win vs. Jets as Zach Wilson Throws 4 INT". Bleacher Report. Retrieved September 19, 2021.
- ^ Costello, Brian (October 3, 2021). "Zach Wilson electric as Jets upset Titans in OT for first win". New York Post. Retrieved October 3, 2021.
- ^ Dedaj, Paulina (October 10, 2021). "Jets' Zach Wilson joins beleaguered quarterback group with 8th interception". Fox Sports. Retrieved October 11, 2021.
- ^ Costello, Brian (October 25, 2021). "Jets destroyed by Patriots amid Zach Wilson injury worry". New York Post. Retrieved October 25, 2021.
- ^ Negley, Cassandra (October 25, 2021). "Report: Jets QB Zach Wilson has 'best-case scenario' with sprained PCL, out 2–4 weeks". Yahoo! Sports. Retrieved October 26, 2021.
- ^ Fonseca, Brian (November 28, 2021). "Zach Wilson leads Jets to win over lowly Texans with solid performance in his return from injury". NJ.com. Retrieved November 28, 2021.
- ^ "Jacksonville Jaguars at New York Jets - December 26th, 2021". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved March 12, 2023.
- ^ Chandler, Joey (January 9, 2022). "3 areas where Jets' Zach Wilson can continue to improve in the offseason". NJ.com. Retrieved January 11, 2022.
- ^ "Zach Wilson 2021 Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved March 12, 2023.
- ^ Gordon, Grant (August 12, 2022). "Jets QB Zach Wilson suffers knee injury in preseason opener". NFL. Retrieved August 13, 2022.
- ^ Vasquez, Andy (October 2, 2022). "Jets' Zach Wilson comes up huge in clutch to deliver shocking 24–20 comeback win over Steelers". NJ.com. Retrieved October 10, 2022.
- ^ "Jets coaches say QB Zach Wilson getting comfortable 17 games into career". The Orange County Register. October 28, 2022. Retrieved October 30, 2022.
- ^ Costello, Brian (October 30, 2022). "Zach Wilson became turnover machine in Jets' loss to Patriots". New York Post. Retrieved October 30, 2022.
- ^ DeArdo, Bryan (November 6, 2022). "Jets vs. Bills score, takeaways: Zach Wilson, defense fuel New York's shocking upset win over Buffalo". CBS Sports. Retrieved November 7, 2022.
- ^ Patra, Kevin (November 21, 2022). "Jets rookie WR Garrett Wilson on offensive woes vs. Patriots: 'This (expletive) is sorry'". NFL. Retrieved November 23, 2022.
- ^ Staley, Antwan (December 1, 2022). "Jets' offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur on Zach Wilson: 'He's handling it the best he can'". New York Daily News. Retrieved December 3, 2022.
- ^ Cimini, Rich (December 16, 2022). "Jets' White not cleared; Wilson starts vs. Lions". ESPN. Retrieved December 16, 2022.
- ^ Smith, Coral (December 22, 2022). "Jets QB Zach Wilson benched in favor of Chris Streveler vs. Jaguars". NFL. Retrieved December 23, 2022.
- ^ Holleran, Andrew (December 26, 2022). "NFL Starting Quarterback Officially Benched To Third String". MSN. Retrieved December 28, 2022.
- ^ Allen, Eric (April 26, 2023). "Jets Acquire QB Aaron Rodgers From Green Bay Packers". New York Jets. Retrieved August 1, 2023.
- ^ Kownack, Bobby (September 11, 2023). "Jets QB Aaron Rodgers exits Monday's overtime win against Bills on first drive; ankle X-rays negative". NFL. Retrieved September 12, 2023.
- ^ Podell, Garrett (September 13, 2023). "Why Jets' Robert Saleh adamantly believes in Zach Wilson as QB1 after Aaron Rodgers' season-ending injury". CBS Sports. Retrieved November 6, 2023.
- ^ Cimini, Rich (September 24, 2023). "Jets' frustrations build as QB Wilson struggles". ESPN. Retrieved October 2, 2023.
- ^ "Jets, Giants each get 6 nationally televised games in 2023 schedule". WCBS-TV. May 11, 2023. Retrieved October 2, 2023.
- ^ Schwab, Frank (October 2, 2023). "Zach Wilson plays well, Jets fight to come back and it's still not enough to beat Chiefs". Yahoo! Sports. Retrieved October 2, 2023.
- ^ Jets stun Giants late and earn ugly 13-10 overtime win on Zuerlein's field goal, ESPN, October 29, 2023
- ^ Ventrenov, Ralph (November 20, 2023). "Jets End Touchdown Drought in Otherwise Dismal Performance vs. Bills". Sports Illustrated. Retrieved November 23, 2023.
- ^ Cimini, Rich (November 20, 2023). "Jets bench Zach Wilson, to start Tim Boyle at QB vs. Dolphins". ESPN. Retrieved November 22, 2023.
- ^ Patra, Kevin (December 6, 2023). "Jets head coach Robert Saleh announces QB Zach Wilson will start Sunday vs. Texans". NFL. Retrieved December 6, 2023.
- ^ Walker, Rhiannon (December 10, 2023). "After a week of reports, Zach Wilson plays 'probably the best game of his career' in Jets 30-6 win". Yahoo Sports. Retrieved December 10, 2023.
- ^ Alper, Josh (December 13, 2023). "Zach Wilson named the AFC offensive player of the week". NBC Sports. Retrieved December 13, 2023.
- ^ Cimini, Rich (January 3, 2024). "Zach Wilson ruled out for finale, perhaps ending time with Jets". ESPN. Retrieved January 3, 2024.
- ^ DiLalla, Aric (April 23, 2024). "Broncos acquire QB Zach Wilson in trade with Jets". Denver Broncos. Retrieved April 23, 2024.
- ^ Mason, Andrew (May 1, 2024). "No surprise: Broncos aren't picking up fifth-year option on Zach Wilson". Denver Sports. Retrieved September 26, 2024.
- ^ Jensen, Chad (September 4, 2024). "Broncos Announce Backup QB Decision on Updated Depth Chart". Sports Illustrated. Retrieved September 6, 2024.
- ^ "Dolphins Sign Wilson". MiamiDolphins.com. March 17, 2025. Retrieved March 17, 2025.
- ^ Thames, Alanis (March 10, 2025). "Dolphins bringing in former Jets QB Zach Wilson on 1-year deal to back up Tagovailoa, AP sources say". AP News. Retrieved March 18, 2025.
- ^ "Zach Wilson – Football". BYU Cougars. Retrieved April 6, 2021.
- ^ a b Drew, Jay (April 23, 2021). "BYU's Zach Wilson: A behind-the-scenes look at the making of a future first-round NFL draft pick". Deseret News. Retrieved April 6, 2021.
- ^ Harper, Mitch (February 5, 2022). "Zach Wilson, Dax Milne Return To Campus, Attend BYU Basketball Game". KSLSports.com. Retrieved July 28, 2022.
- ^ Tasch, Justin (June 30, 2024). "Zach Wilson gets engaged to girlfriend Nicolette Dellanno in Italy". Retrieved June 30, 2024.
- ^ Hendricks, Jaclyn (June 29, 2025). "Zach Wilson, wife Nicolette get married in lavish NYC wedding". Retrieved June 29, 2025.
External links
[edit]
- Career statistics from NFL.com · ESPN · Yahoo Sports · Pro Football Reference
- BYU Cougars bio
- Miami Dolphins bio
Zach Wilson
View on GrokipediaEarly life and high school
Family and upbringing
Zachary Kapono Wilson was born on August 3, 1999, in Draper, Utah, to parents Michael "Mike" and Lisa Wilson (née Neeleman).[5][1] The family settled in Utah after Mike, originally from Hawaii, met Lisa while attending the University of Utah, where he played as a defensive lineman, redshirting in 1992 before appearing in 1993 and 1994, and missing 1995 due to a knee injury; he chose to build his life there rather than return to his home state.[6] Mike worked as an entrepreneur, owning and operating gas stations, convenience stores, and a laundromat, while also dedicating significant time to coaching youth sports in the local community.[6] Lisa, born in Salt Lake City to a prominent entrepreneurial family with ties to the airline industry, focused on family life, fitness, and wellness initiatives.[7][6] Wilson grew up in a large, athletic family of six children, with three younger brothers—Micah, Josh, and Isaac—and two sisters, Whitney and Sophie; all the boys pursued football, with Isaac emerging as a quarterback recruit for the University of Utah.[7][8] The family honored Mike's Hawaiian roots by giving each child a Hawaiian middle name, reflecting their Polynesian heritage on his side, which emphasized values of resilience and family closeness amid Mike's own challenging upbringing, as his parents divorced when he was young and he was raised primarily by his single mother with limited contact from his father.[8][9] Wilson was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) during his college years, a condition that runs in the family and presented challenges with focus and classroom engagement, though he managed it with medication and support from his parents.[6][10] Wilson's introduction to football came early through family involvement and local youth programs in Utah, where Mike coached his son's flag football team starting at age 5, instilling discipline and a love for the sport amid the competitive environment of Draper.[7] This hands-on guidance from his father, combined with the family's emphasis on physical activity and perseverance—echoing Mike's journey from a tough childhood to building a stable life in Utah—helped shape Wilson's foundational development before his organized athletic pursuits.[8][6]High school career
Wilson attended Corner Canyon High School in Draper, Utah, beginning as a freshman in 2013. He began his football career as a backup quarterback before taking over as the starter during his junior season in 2016, when he threw for 2,708 passing yards.[11] As a senior in 2017, Wilson completed 170 of 297 passes for 2,986 yards and 24 touchdowns, while adding 752 rushing yards and eight rushing scores.[12] His performance helped lead the Corner Canyon Chargers to an 11–1 record and an appearance in the Utah Class 5A state semifinals, where they fell 34–33 to Skyridge High School.[13] For his efforts, he was named the 5A Offensive MVP and earned first-team all-state honors.[14] Wilson's senior-year success drew attention from college recruiters, resulting in scholarship offers from programs including Boise State, Oregon State, California, Syracuse, Minnesota, and several Mountain West schools.[12] He verbally committed to Boise State in June 2017 following their Elite Camp but de-committed on December 13, 2017, citing family priorities and new opportunities.[15] Shortly after, he switched his commitment to Brigham Young University in late December 2017 and signed during the early signing period.[12] In addition to football, Wilson showcased his multi-sport athleticism by playing basketball at Corner Canyon, where he averaged 15.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals per game as a junior.[16]Professional career
New York Jets (2021–2023)
The New York Jets selected quarterback Zach Wilson with the second overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.[17] He signed a four-year rookie contract worth $35,150,681, fully guaranteed, including a $22,921,845 signing bonus.[18] Wilson started all 13 games in his 2021 rookie season, completing 213 of 383 passes for 2,334 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, while the Jets finished with a 4-13 record.[1][19] The team allowed 53 sacks that year, ranking fourth-worst in the NFL and highlighting struggles in pass protection for the young quarterback.[20] In 2022, Wilson sustained a preseason knee injury—a meniscus tear and bone bruise—missing the first three games before returning in Week 4.[21] He started the remaining nine games, passing for 1,688 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions as the Jets ended 7-10.[1] The Jets acquired four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers in the 2023 offseason, positioning Wilson as the backup.[22] However, Rodgers suffered a torn Achilles tendon on the fourth snap of Week 1, thrusting Wilson back into the starting role.[23] Wilson started 11 of 12 games, recording 2,271 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions before being benched in Week 12 for Tim Boyle; Boyle was subsequently replaced by Trevor Siemian in Week 13.[1][24][25] The Jets traded Wilson to the Denver Broncos in April 2024.[26]Denver Broncos (2024)
On April 22, 2024, the Denver Broncos acquired quarterback Zach Wilson from the New York Jets in exchange for a 2024 sixth-round draft pick (No. 203 overall), while receiving Wilson and a 2024 seventh-round pick (No. 256 overall) in return.[27] The teams also agreed to split Wilson's remaining 2024 base salary of $5.5 million evenly, with each paying $2.75 million.[28] This trade provided Wilson an opportunity for a fresh start after a challenging tenure with the Jets, where he had been benched multiple times. Following the trade, the Broncos declined the fifth-year option on Wilson's rookie contract in late April 2024, positioning him to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2024 season.[29] During training camp and preseason, Wilson competed for the backup role but ultimately settled as the third-string quarterback behind starter Bo Nix and Jarrett Stidham.[30] He appeared in all three preseason games, completing 28 of 44 passes for 397 yards, four touchdowns, and zero interceptions, achieving a passer rating of 115.4.[31] Despite these solid showings, particularly in the finale against the Arizona Cardinals where he went 16-of-25 for 193 yards and two touchdowns, Wilson did not see action in any regular-season games as the Broncos relied on Nix and Stidham throughout their 10-7 campaign.[32] Wilson's time in Denver concluded without a new contract extension from the team, and he entered free agency in March 2025, eventually signing elsewhere.[33] His stint highlighted a developmental backup role in a quarterback room focused on Nix's rookie transition under head coach Sean Payton.Miami Dolphins (2025)
On March 17, 2025, as an unrestricted free agent after his rookie contract expired with the Denver Broncos, Zach Wilson signed a one-year, $6 million fully guaranteed contract with the Miami Dolphins.[34][35] As the backup to starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, Wilson has appeared in two games during the 2025 season, accumulating 32 passing yards with zero touchdowns and zero interceptions.[36][37] Notable contributions include a relief appearance in Week 1 at Indianapolis, where he completed 5 of 8 passes for 32 yards, and in Week 8 at Atlanta, where he went 1 for 1 for 0 yards.NFL career statistics
New Orleans Saints (2026–present)
In late March 2026, Wilson reportedly reached a free agent agreement with the New Orleans Saints, according to multiple league sources. This marks a new chapter following his time with the Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins.Passing statistics
Zach Wilson's NFL passing career spans four seasons with the New York Jets (2021–2023), Denver Broncos (2024, no starts), and Miami Dolphins (2025), during which he has completed 57.1% of his passes for 6,325 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 25 interceptions across 36 games as of November 19, 2025.[1] His career passer rating stands at 73.6, with an average of 6.3 yards per attempt and a sack percentage of 9.4%.[1] Wilson has not appeared in any postseason games to date.[1] The following table details his year-by-year passing statistics:| Year | Team | Games (GS) | Completions | Attempts | Completion % | Yards | TDs | INTs | Passer Rating | Yards/Attempt | Sacks (Yards Lost) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | NYJ | 13 (13) | 213 | 383 | 55.6 | 2,334 | 9 | 11 | 69.7 | 6.1 | 44 (306) |
| 2022 | NYJ | 9 (9) | 132 | 242 | 54.5 | 1,688 | 6 | 7 | 72.8 | 7.0 | 23 (151) |
| 2023 | NYJ | 12 (11) | 221 | 368 | 60.1 | 2,271 | 8 | 7 | 77.2 | 6.2 | 46 (329) |
| 2024 | DEN | 0 (0) | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | — | 0 (0) |
| 2025 | MIA | 2 (0) | 6 | 9 | 66.7 | 32 | 0 | 0 | 72.5 | 3.6 | 0 (0) |
| Career | — | 36 (33) | 572 | 1,002 | 57.1 | 6,325 | 23 | 25 | 73.6 | 6.3 | 113 (786) |
Rushing statistics
Zach Wilson has demonstrated moderate mobility as a rushing quarterback in the NFL, accumulating 418 rushing yards and 0 touchdowns on 84 carries across 36 games as of November 19, 2025.[1] His career yards per carry average stands at 5.0, with 4 fumbles total (2 lost).[1] Wilson has no postseason rushing statistics.[38] The following table summarizes his regular-season rushing performance year by year:| Year | Team | Games | Carries | Yards | Yards/Carry | Longest | Touchdowns | Fumbles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | New York Jets | 13 | 25 | 65 | 2.6 | 15 | 0 | 2 (1 lost) |
| 2022 | New York Jets | 9 | 20 | 47 | 2.4 | 12 | 0 | 1 (0 lost) |
| 2023 | New York Jets | 12 | 39 | 306 | 7.8 | 34 | 0 | 1 (1 lost) |
| 2024 | Denver Broncos | 0 | 0 | 0 | - | - | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | Miami Dolphins | 2 | 0 | 0 | - | - | 0 | 0 |
| Career | - | 36 | 84 | 418 | 5.0 | 34 | 0 | 4 (2 lost) |