Jets open camp without unsigned No. 2 overall pick Zach Wilson
The New York Jets opened training camp Tuesday without quarterback Zach Wilson, who has yet to sign his rookie contract.
The second overall pick and Jets are still negotiating the payment structure and offset language of the deal, with the latter likely being the biggest issue, according to Connor Hughes of The Athletic. The offset language gives New York financial protection in case the team releases a player under contract.
Head coach Robert Saleh is optimistic the two sides will agree on a deal before the Jets conduct their first practice at training camp Wednesday.
"I have a lot of faith in (general manager) Joe (Douglas)," Saleh said Tuesday, according to Hughes. "We'll see what happens in the next couple of hours."
He added: "From a rookie standpoint you need as many reps as you can while veterans get off days here and there. It's something they'll have to navigate through. I have a lot of faith in Zach, too. He's incredibly intelligent. Has a tremendous drive. When he does get here I know (he'll be fine)."
Wilson is expected to ink a four-year guaranteed deal worth $35.15 million.
New York's quarterback depth chart still features James Morgan and Mike White, who have no regular-season experience in the NFL.
The Jets and Sam Darnold also had a brief contract dispute in 2018. The then-rookie signal-caller ended up missing three days of practice before signing a deal.
San Franciso 49ers quarterback Trey Lance is the only other first-round rookie who remains unsigned this year.