CANTON, Ohio — Zach Wilson’s return to the field was short but did feature one memorable throw.
The Jets quarterback played the first three series of the Hall of Fame Game against the Browns on Thursday night.
He completed 3-of-5 passes for 65 yards, with 57 of those yards coming on one throw.
Wilson, the 2021 No. 2 overall pick, is adjusting to life as Aaron Rodgers’ backup.
That is why he was playing in a meaningless preseason game in early August surrounded by players fighting for roster spots.
Playing on his 24th birthday, Wilson did provide one highlight for those looking for signs he has improved.
On the Jets’ second series, he launched a 57-yard pass down the left sideline to Malik Taylor.
The ball traveled nearly all of those yards in the air and hit Taylor in the hands.
It set up a 54-yard Greg Zuerlein field goal.
Wilson completed his first pass of the game for three yards to tight end Kenny Yeboah.
On third-and-2, Wilson scrambled and slipped, giving the Browns a sack.
After Wilson’s big throw to Taylor on the second series, Wilson threw an incompletion on third-and-11 and Zuerlein kicked.
The Jets got the ball back when the Browns fumbled on their first play.
Wilson hit rookie running back Israel Abanikanda for a 5-yard gain on first down, but threw an incompletion on third-and-5, bringing Zuerlein out for another field goal, this one from 44 yards.
Wilson exited the game after the first quarter and Tim Boyle entered in his place.
Wilson figures to get plenty of action during the preseason as Rodgers watches from the sideline.
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