NY Jets news: Quinnen Williams no show, Garrett Wilson changing number

The NY Jets officially began their offseason program on Monday, but they did so with one very notable name not in attendance. Star defensive tackle Quinnen Williams was not present for the start of the Jets' offseason program.

This was expected, as Williams told reporters back in January that he would not attend the voluntary portion of the Jets' offseason schedule without a new contract. The two sides are reportedly still negotiating an extension, but a deal does not appear imminent.

Williams is not expected to be in attendance for OTAs next month either unless the Jets extend him beforehand. The real issue comes if he's not extended before mandatory minicamp in mid-June and then training camp in July.

The Jets could fine Williams for not appearing at a mandatory team event. The hope is that it doesn't get to that point and that the two sides work out a deal before long. For now, Williams isn't with the team.

Other NY Jets news

Garrett Wilson changing his jersey number

Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson announced yesterday on Twitter that he plans to switch back to his college number of No. 5 in the near future. Wilson insisted that he will continue to wear No. 17 this season, but that he will be switching to No. 5 in 2024.

Wilson was unable to wear his college number as a rookie, as quarterback Mike White was the holder of said number. With White now in Miami, Wilson saw the opportunity and took it.

It's not often that we see a player announce their intentions to wear a jersey number a year before they do it. I suppose Wilson probably has some sort of agreement that no Jets player will wear that number this season unless they plan to concede it next year.

Jets host mid-round running back prospect

The Jets may appear set at running back, but the team is still exploring a few options in the draft. One such option is UAB's DeWayne McBride, who the Jets brought in for an official top-30 visit on Monday.

McBride was named second-team All-American and voted as the C-USA Offensive Player of the Year following a standout junior season that saw him finish with 1,713 yards and 19 touchdowns in just 11 games.

McBride led the entire FBS in yards per carry and yards per game in 2022, setting numerous UAB records along the way. At 5-foot-10, 209 pounds, McBride has a good build for the position as well.

The Jets might be looking to add a little more running back depth and security with Breece Hall still recovering from injury. McBride could be an option in the middle rounds of this year's draft.