Zach Wilson of the Miami Dolphins is already a journeyman? A fresh backup QB believes he can start for the NFL.

Zach Wilson’s NFL journey has been anything but conventional. Once hailed as the New York Jets’ franchise savior after being drafted second overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, Wilson now finds himself as a backup quarterback for the Miami Dolphins, looking for an opportunity to prove he still belongs as a starter. His trajectory serves as a testament to the volatile nature of the NFL, where early success does not always guarantee long-term stability.

Early Promise and Draft Hype

Wilson’s road to the NFL began with a stellar career at BYU, where he showcased exceptional arm talent, mobility, and playmaking ability. His breakout 2020 season, in which he threw for 33 touchdowns and just 3 interceptions, propelled him to the top of draft boards. The Jets, desperate for a franchise quarterback, selected him with the second overall pick in 2021, expecting him to be the long-term answer under center.

Struggles in New York

Despite flashes of talent, Wilson struggled to establish consistency in New York. His rookie season was marred by injuries and erratic play, finishing with 9 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. While the team remained committed to his development, the 2022 season saw further regression. Wilson’s decision-making, pocket presence, and ability to read defenses were scrutinized heavily. The infamous moment when he failed to take accountability for a poor performance against the New England Patriots led to his benching, signaling the beginning of the end for his time in New York.

Jets Move On, Wilson Faces Uncertain Future

After two difficult seasons, the Jets made a bold move in 2023 by trading for four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers. This effectively ended Wilson’s starting tenure, relegating him to the bench. When Rodgers suffered a season-ending injury just four plays into the season, Wilson was thrust back into the starting role. However, his inconsistent play and the team’s struggles made it clear that he was not the long-term solution. By the end of the season, the Jets decided to part ways with Wilson, trading him to the Denver Broncos in 2024.

A Fresh Start in Denver – But No Playing Time

Wilson’s move to Denver was seen as a chance for him to reset his career. However, the Broncos were already in the midst of a quarterback shuffle and had no plans to start Wilson. Instead, he spent the entire 2024 season as a third-string quarterback, failing to see the field in any regular-season games. Though he remained professional and committed to improving, his lack of playing time raised questions about his future in the league.

Miami Dolphins Take a Chance

In 2025, Wilson signed a one-year, $6 million contract with the Miami Dolphins, backing up Tua Tagovailoa. The move presents an intriguing opportunity for Wilson, as Miami’s offense, under head coach Mike McDaniel, is tailored to a quarterback with quick decision-making and accuracy. While Tagovailoa has solidified his position as the starter, his injury history suggests Wilson could see playing time if an opportunity arises.

Belief in Himself – A Quarterback Who Still Sees Himself as a Starter

Despite being labeled a journeyman after just four years in the league, Wilson remains adamant that he can be a starting quarterback in the NFL. He has spoken about learning from his past mistakes and embracing the challenges that have come his way. The Dolphins coaching staff has praised his work ethic, and while he may not be the first option in Miami, Wilson knows that the right situation could give him another shot at proving his worth.

National Reaction and Expectations

Wilson’s signing with the Dolphins has received mixed reactions. Some analysts believe he still has untapped potential and that the Miami system could help him develop further. Others, however, remain skeptical, viewing him as a backup-caliber quarterback who has already had multiple opportunities to prove himself. The debate surrounding Wilson’s career is likely to continue until he gets another chance to play meaningful snaps.

 – A Career at a Crossroads

Zach Wilson’s NFL journey is far from over. While his career has not unfolded as expected, he remains determined to rewrite the narrative. His time with the Dolphins may not be a final destination but rather another step in a winding road. If he gets an opportunity to start again, Wilson will need to capitalize on it, proving that he is more than just a high draft pick who didn’t pan out. Whether he remains a backup or eventually earns another shot as a starter, one thing is clear: Zach Wilson is not ready to give up on his dream just yet.