One of the most important developments for the 2026 New York Jets season will be the comeback of receiver Garrett Wilson. The steady Wilson had three 1000-yard seasons in his first three years before being derailed by a knee injury in 2025.
Before that, Wilson built a reputation of being able to catch anything near him, leading to some spectacular plays that stood out in a largely dismal Jets offense.
Wilson returns from a year derailed by a knee injury with two key additions to his team: veteran quarterback Geno Smith and offensive coordinator Frank Reich. Both should make a positive difference for Wilson’s ability to take over a game.
No one is expecting a Jets Super Bowl run. But it wouldn’t be out of question that the team could sneak into the playoffs and/or have some meaningful games in December if Wilson’s talent can be unleashed.
The biggest help to Wilson’s return is Smith, himself coming back to the team that drafted him in the second round way back in 2013. Although his first tenure is best remembered by the punch from teammate IK Enemkpali over a $600 debut, Smith has grown in his time away.
He was named the 2022 Comeback Player of the Year after throwing for 4,282 yards (leading the NFL in completion percentage at 69.8%), with 30 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. That led to an NFL odyssey with stops at the New York Giants, Los Angeles Chargers, the Seattle Seahawks (where he won the Comeback Player award) and then to the Las Vegas Raiders.
If nothing else, Smith has shown he can get the ball to his playmakers and lead a team. That gives him a leg up on the debacle of Jets quarterbacking last year, when Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor and Brady Cook led the team to a 3-14 record.
The Frank Reich connection should also help open things up for Wilson. Reich is a disciple of the West Coast offense – short passes, strong running game. Wilson won’t have to carry the team, leaving him free for the occasional big play when defenses are lulled by the short game. Reich will be sure to set up a few one-on-one situations that will give Wilson space to make plays.
Also a key in the hoped-for Wilson renaissance is Adonai Mitchell, who the Jets hope blossoms into a solid No. 2. Add in his threat and the possibilities of tight end Mason Taylor and running back Breece Hall providing strong support, and the Jets may have something.
But it all starts with the return of Wilson as the Jets’ best player. If you hear his name consistently called, you can bet the Jets are doing something good on the field.
