New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson stated Wednesday that he has not requested a trade despite visible frustration with the team’s 2-5 record and his limited role in the offense. Wilson remains under a four-year, $130 million contract extension that runs through the 2030 season.
The 26-year-old denied seeking a way out of New York amid growing speculation as the Nov. 10 NFL trade deadline approaches. While Wilson expressed a desire to stay, he admitted that his love for the city does not outweigh his desire to win.
Yeah, I want to be here, man. I want to win games and that’s the one thing we’ve been missing on here. I love it here. Do I love it more than I love winning? Nah, to be completely honest, but I’m hopeful.
Wilson Expresses Frustration over Limited Targets
Wilson’s tension became a public focal point during a 28-25 loss to the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. Television cameras captured him visibly upset on the sideline. In that game, he was targeted only three times, resulting in two catches for 26 yards.
This followed a similar trend in a loss to the New England Patriots, where he recorded four catches for 44 yards. Together, Wilson has managed only six receptions over the Jets’ last two losses. He acknowledged that the lack of opportunities is frustrating, though he insists his reactions stem from a competitive drive rather than a desire to leave the franchise.
I’d be lying if I said it’s not, but at the end of the day it comes down to … winning and losing. Throughout my experience, when things go right, I tend to have a part in that. And when it doesn’t, it seems avoidable.
Wilson further explained that his visible reactions should not be misconstrued, stating, This all comes from a place in my heart of wanting to win.
He added, I'm biased, but it also comes from experience where I played my part in that.
The receiver noted that while he has tried to remain optimistic for three, four, five years now,
the weekly losses have begun to hurt more because he has never experienced a winning season in his NFL career.
Coaching Perspectives
The Jets’ coaching staff and quarterback Geno Smith have maintained that they intend to target Wilson frequently. Smith noted that while he wants to get Wilson the ball, he must remain mindful of defensive adjustments.
Offensive coordinator Frank Reich and coach Aaron Glenn have echoed these sentiments, with Glenn repeatedly stating the team’s goal is to get the ball to Wilson early and often.
Garrett Wilson says he would not request a trade away from the Jets pic.twitter.com/Zhh2wTcRXq
High Contract Cost Complicates Potential Trade
Wilson’s financial commitment to the team is significant. This contract locks him in through 2030, which would likely command a high price for any acquiring team.
Despite this, the Jets have a recent history of trading high-draft talent. Last season, the team moved cornerback Sauce Gardner shortly after Gardner signed a four-year, $120 million extension, and also shipped away Quinnen Williams for future draft capital.
While the Jets have not indicated they are looking to trade Wilson, some analysts have suggested potential landing spots. Speculation suggests Wilson could fit in Kansas City due to injuries in their receiver room, including Rashee Rice (hamstring) and Tyquan Thornton, who is on injured reserve. Other potential destinations mentioned include the San Francisco 49ers, who currently hold a 6-1 record.
Jets Struggle to Find Wins Before Playoff Race
The Jets currently appear on track to miss the playoffs for what would be a 16th consecutive season. Since Wilson joined the team, they have a record of 24-41 (or 24-51 according to some reports), never exceeding a 7-10 record in a single season. While Wilson leads the team with 37 receptions for 444 yards and three touchdowns, the franchise remains at 2-5. The team’s next test comes this Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders (3-4).