Frank Reich might not be tuned into the distant shouts from the stands, bars, or homes, but he certainly feels the pressure through his headset when the Jets’ most dynamic player isn’t getting enough touches.
“[Coach Aaron Glenn is] always reminding me, if Garrett [Wilson] hasn’t had the ball in a while, to ‘Hey, remember to get the playmakers involved,’ and that’s helpful,” Reich mentioned on Thursday. “We’re really trying to get it to him early and frequently. He’s an incredible talent, so it’s essential to get him the ball. I think we’re addressing it somewhat. Can we do it more? Absolutely.”
Reich recognizes the mounting frustration—not just from Wilson but also from the fans—regarding the team’s struggle to effectively utilize their top receiver amid ongoing offensive challenges.
The Jets currently sit 25th in total offense (290.7 yards per game), 27th in scoring (18.7 points), 23rd in passing yardage (196.2), and are last in red-zone touchdown efficiency (37.5%).
In their loss against Chicago on October 4, Wilson was targeted only four times, catching three passes for a mere 27 yards. The situation wasn’t much better against New England, where the rookie receiver—navigating his fourth offensive coordinator in five seasons and his 11th quarterback—got just two targets through three quarters, clearly frustrated after finishing with four catches for 44 yards.
“I understand his moments of frustration—I’m not down on the sidelines to see everything, but I hear about them,” Reich explained. “He’s a passionate competitor. He knows he can make plays, and we acknowledge that too. Working with him has been a pleasure. I love having him as our main guy, alongside Breece [Hall] and Geno [Smith]. He really sets the tone. We appreciate his intensity, and we welcome that.”
“Is there a limit to what’s acceptable? Sure, but Garrett is a professional, and he understands that balance. I think he manages it well. I actually welcome a bit of noise from the guys. You can be a team player and still know when you need the ball. Both can coexist, and they certainly do with Garrett.”
Despite quieter outings recently, Wilson ranks ninth in the NFL with 35 receptions, 14th in receiving yards with 418, and is tied for 15th in targets (48), along with three touchdowns.
The 26-year-old is on track for a career-high 99 receptions, and while he’s set for personal bests in yards and touchdowns, his eight targets per game mark is the lowest since he entered the league.
“They’re making every effort,” Wilson stated on Wednesday. “I’d say they’re pretty aware of it. It’s not like I need to convince them it’s necessary; they recognize that as well.”
In the upcoming game against Miami, Reich may have even more playmakers at his disposal.
Adonai Mitchell, the No. 2 receiver, might make his return for the first time since Week 2, and Breece Hall may also come back from injury. Meanwhile, rookie Omar Cooper Jr. had an impressive first full game, racking up 107 yards and a touchdown.
However, Smith—who is tied for the third most sacks taken this season (19)—needs to improve his red-zone performance, having not led the offense to a touchdown in their last seven attempts.
“We need to step up offensively, especially in the red zone and on third down. There’s definitely room for improvement,” Reich acknowledged. “I’m fully aware of our shortcomings, and we’re dedicated to making progress.”
“As the coordinator, that responsibility begins with me.”
