NY Jets QB Zach Wilson seemingly takes a shot at former OC

The NY Jets made the decision to move on from offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur this offseason and replace him with the well-traveled Nathaniel Hackett. Perhaps no one is happier about this move than Jets quarterback Zach Wilson.

Wilson has kept a relatively low-profile this offseason. He's been doing everything he can behind the scenes — both on and off the field — to improve his game and prepare for the upcoming season.

Wilson spoke to reporters on Friday after the Jets' final OTA session, and the second-year quarterback said all the right things. That said, there was a somewhat notable remark he made when talking about the Jets' new offensive staff.

The former second-overall pick was asked about what it's been like going from an inexperienced offensive coaching staff led by LaFleur to an experienced staff led by Hackett and passing game coordinator Todd Downing.

Here's what he said.

"From a trust aspect of just buying into what they're saying...those guys really know what they're talking about. It's refreshing."

- Zach Wilson

Zach Wilson seems to be a fan of the NY Jets' new offensive coaching staff

Of course, Wilson very likely doesn't mean any harm here. He's not intentionally taking jabs at anyone, let alone his former coach. But it isn't hard to read between the lines a little and use context clues.

Wilson referred to the new coaching staff as "refreshing," insisting that they "really know what they're talking about." It's safe to say that Wilson is probably meshing with the Jets' new offensive staff more than he did with LaFleur and company.

There's been plenty of discussion since LaFleur was fired about the riff between him and Wilson. There's a very significant difference in the coaching philosophies of LaFleur and Hackett.

Hackett is very much a player's coach. The former Denver Broncos head coach is active and energetic on the sideline, and he isn't afraid to shower his players with praise and appreciation. That's never been LaFleur's calling card.

The Jets are hoping that, under Hackett and Downing's tutelage, Wilson can begin to rehabilitate his NFL career. It certainly doesn't hurt having his childhood idol, Aaron Rodgers, around to help, either.

Wilson and LaFleur never really seemed to gel. Only time will tell if Hackett and Downing are able to salvage Wilson's career, but at the very least, Wilson seems happier. Take it from him.

"Right now, I'm having a ton of fun - more fun than I've had. That's the QB room, being with Aaron...every single day, there's so much to learn."

- Zach Wilson

Zach Wilson is reinvigorated ahead of the 2023 season, and the Jets' new offensive coaching staff seems to be a large reason why.