Jets Offensive Coordinator Frank Reich Acknowledges Need for More Garrett Wilson Involvement

New York Jets offensive coordinator Frank Reich admitted Thursday that he needs to improve how he incorporates wide receiver Garrett Wilson into the offense. Reich's comments come as Wilson has seen limited targets in recent games, leading to visible frustration from the player.

"We want to get it to him even more," Reich said of Wilson. "There are other ways we can create touches and scheme him open. And we are, all the time. I want him to be the best in the NFL because I think that’s what we think of him. But I think he’s been productive, and we’ll keep trying to get him the ball."

In the Jets' recent loss to Chicago, Wilson recorded three receptions for 27 yards. In the subsequent loss to New England, he made four catches for 44 yards before leaving the field seemingly upset. Last week, against Miami, Wilson was targeted only three times, catching two passes for 26 yards. During that game, he was observed yelling at passing game coordinator Seth Ryan on the sideline.

Reich addressed the interactions, describing them as "healthy tension." He provided context, noting that opposing defenses often double-team Wilson, which opens opportunities for other players. He cited a play against Miami where, due to Wilson drawing coverage, another receiver came open for a 52-yard gain. He also mentioned a play where a safety deviated from his assignment to double Wilson, allowing for a successful deep pass from quarterback Geno Smith.

"So Garrett doesn’t touch it there, but there are 100[-plus] yards of offense that Garrett Wilson created," Reich explained.

Wilson currently ranks 11th in the NFL with 37 receptions, 19th with 444 receiving yards, and is tied for 17th with 51 targets, having scored three touchdowns.

However, Reich conceded that a specific play call in the fourth quarter against Miami was a mistake. On a crucial third down, the play resulted in a 12-yard sack rather than an attempt to get Wilson the ball. "That’s the one call I’d want back in that game," Reich stated. "Try to get it to Garrett. Do something different to try to get it to Garrett with the game on the line like that. Those are the kinds of situations I know he’s talking about, and I get it. I’ve got to do better there."

In other team news, several players missed practice on Thursday due to injury: David Bailey (groin), T’Vondre Sweat (knee), Joseph Ossai (ankle), and Max Mitchell (concussion). Breece Hall (quad) and Dylan Parham (knee) were limited participants. Braelon Allen (ankle) was a full participant after being limited the previous day.

Meanwhile, rookie Omar Cooper Jr. earned NFL Rookie of the Week honors for the second consecutive week after recording five catches for 115 yards and a touchdown against the Dolphins. Jets rookies have now claimed the award in four of the past five weeks.