2021 Second Overall Pick Signs with New Orleans Saints

Zach Wilson hit free agency during this offseason after appearing in four games in 2025. However, it didn’t take long before he was signed to the New Orleans Saints on a one-year deal to continue playing in the NFL. It hasn’t been an easy ride for him during his time in the NFL, but he has been able to take some time to figure himself out. The Utah native is getting another chance at being a leader in any way he can. The financial details of the contract have not yet been specified.

Wilson was selected second overall in the 2021 NFL Draft by the New York Jets and was immediately thrust into a difficult situation. Wilson started 13 games as a rookie behind an inconsistent offensive line. At the time, he was also dealing with a rebuilding roster, flashing raw talent but struggling with turnovers, timing, and pocket awareness. His development stalled further in Year Two as injuries, offensive instability, and confidence issues compounded, ultimately leading to his benching. 

Over the course of his NFL career, Wilson has thrown for 6,325 total passing yards and 23 touchdown passes. The former BYU Cougar has thrown 25 interceptions across parts of four seasons with the New York Jets and in brief appearances with the Miami Dolphins. Wilson was on the Broncos in 2024, but did not see the field. The 26-year-old has completed just over 57% of his passes in limited action. His most extensive work came with the Jets from 2021 to 2023, including a 2023 campaign in which he passed for 2,271 yards with eight touchdowns and seven interceptions in 12 games, while earlier seasons saw similar struggles with turnovers and consistency. In 2025, Wilson saw minimal action, recording 32 yards on six of 11 passing attempts.  

This contract was a surprise for many and one no one had seen coming. However, now that he is ready to come back onto the scene, there should be a turnaround for him. Wilson, who will be 27 before the season starts, has a team and head coach that show a lot of promise. Zach Wilson may not be immediately a QB1 option; it’s not going to be easy for him, but it’s definitely going to take some time for him to adjust before the season starts. At the end of the day, the Saints are benefiting by adding a veteran in Wilson, who has had his share of turmoil and obstacles.