5 NY Jets players the Carolina Panthers must keep quiet in Week 1
By Dean Jones
Zach Wilson – QB
The time for talk and hype is almost over for Zach Wilson. He must now start producing the goods when it matters most and there are plenty of expectations on the No. 2 overall selection’s shoulders right out of the gate.
Wilson was phenomenal at BYU in 2020. Much has been made about the standard of competition, but it’s clear the intangibles are there for the signal-caller to go on and have a successful NFL career.
His arm strength is undeniable. Wilson also has a rare gift to make plays happen almost out of nothing, something the Carolina Panthers need to be wary of when they come up against the rookie in Week 1.
This will be labeled as a clash between Wilson and the player he’s replacing in New York. The Sam Darnold revenge game is set to be at the forefront of everyone’s minds early on and who comes out on top can generate some early momentum to take through into the remainder of the campaign.
Wilson is sure to be nervous. This is his first league start, after all.
The Panthers must make things as uncomfortable as possible for Wilson, which should come with some turnover opportunities in pursuit of victory.