Jets questioned over bizarre handling of Zach Wilson concussion

New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson throws during warmups before an NFL game against the Cincinnati Bengals at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2022. Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK

The New York Jets saw their playoff hopes end on Sunday in a 30-0 loss to the Miami Dolphins that also saw quarterback Zach Wilson get knocked out of the game just before halftime.

The Jets’ handling of Wilson came under some scrutiny due to their shifting explanations for his exit. When Wilson went to the locker room late in the first half, the team said he was simply dehydrated. The Jets then changed their tune, characterizing Wilson’s issue as a head injury, even though he was not in the concussion protocol. Finally, he was ruled out with a concussion.

Final update. So per the Jets, he left first half early because of “hydration.” He didn’t come out for second half due to “head injury” — but wasn’t yet being evaluated for a concussion. He then entered concussion protocol (for the second time of the game) and was ruled out. https://t.co/8b6LJ7gYyX

— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) December 17, 2023

To be clear, Wilson never re-entered the game after coming out, so it is not as if he was ever cleared to return and then pulled out again. Still, the shifting explanations look very strange.

A couple weeks ago, there were reports that Wilson was reluctant to play again this season due to the risk of injury. Perhaps he had good reason to be concerned.