NY Jets should embrace 'QB controversy' with Mike White and Zach Wilson

The phrase "quarterback controversy" carries a lot of weight. And with the NY Jets already flirting with the concept following Mike White's star-making performance in Week 8, it's important to revisit that loaded phrase.

There are many different types of quarterback controversies. You have your classic veteran/rookie controversy where the fan base is pleading for the youngster to play while the organization tends to lean on the established veteran.

You have your veteran-versus-veteran conflict with two experienced quarterbacks battling it out for the starting job. Quarterback controversies come in many shapes and sizes.

But what the Jets have is unique. They have two young quarterbacks who can both make strong cases to be on the field.

And despite what many in the media might say, despite all the headlines and the loaded connotations associated with the term "controversy," this isn't a bad thing.

In fact, it's a good thing. A very good thing.

A potential quarterback controversy is a good thing for the NY Jets

Right now, the Jets have a 22-year-old No. 2 overall pick with a sky-high ceiling who has started six games in his career. He's had his fair share of struggles but shown just enough to leave you wanting more.

The case for Zach Wilson is obvious.

He was the anointed franchise savior just a few months ago and has all the natural talent to become one of the best quarterbacks in the league.

Wilson has had trouble adapting to the NFL game, sure. The Zach Wilson we've seen in those six starts is a hollow shell of the Zach Wilson we saw at BYU.

He's hesitant, erratic, and lacking the confidence that made him so endearing in college. Will it ever click for Wilson? It's far too early to tell. But what is clear is that it's foolish to make any definitive statements about his NFL future.

The Jets want Wilson to start so that he can grow and learn on the job. That was their plan going into the year.

But the emergence of Mike White introduces a new wrinkle.

In White, the Jets have a 26-year-old quarterback who has one career start under his belt. And in that start, he put together one of the best performances from a Jets quarterback in years making history multiple times in the process.

400 yards. 82% completion percentage. Three touchdowns. And numerous moments that surely convinced those watching that he had "it."

Of course, this is a one-game sample size. White may take the field on Thursday and toss four interceptions in a blowout loss. But he also might do the same as he did on Sunday and continue to impress.

If that happens, rest assured the cries of "controversy" will only grow louder. And if they do, that's perfectly fine.

Having two young, valuable quarterbacks on your roster is never a bad thing.

The Jets should welcome a potential quarterback controversy. There's no such thing as too much of a good thing when it comes to promising young quarterbacks.