Robert Saleh - New York Jets 'not out of the woods' until outcome of Zach Wilson's knee scope

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — The New York Jets were noncommittal on a timetable for injured quarterback Zach Wilson, saying it depends on the outcome of arthroscopic knee surgery Tuesday in Los Angeles.

«We're optimistic, but he's not out of the woods until they get in there and make the decision [on how to handle the meniscus],» coach Robert Saleh said Sunday.

Wilson, injured in Friday night's preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles, is expected to miss two to four weeks with a bone bruise and torn meniscus in his right knee, sources said Saturday. That projection was based on an MRI. The current belief is that the meniscus needs only a «trim,» not a full repair, a source said.

The team is hopeful that it won't be longer than four weeks, but it won't give an absolute until the scope, which will be performed by knee expert Neal ElAttrache, the team physician for the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Dodgers.

ElAttrache also will have a consultation with injured right tackle Mekhi Becton (knee), who is expected to miss the entire season.

While the Jets were relieved to learn that Wilson's injury isn't season ending, they acknowledged it could hamper his development early in the season. He will miss the final two preseason games, plus joint practices against the Atlanta Falcons and New York Giants.

«It's a setback in that he's missing an unbelievable opportunity to get the reps in, to play other defenses, especially the Giants, who have such an elaborate pressure-package system,» Saleh said. «He has to get dialed in, just like he did last year when he was hurt.

»The timing of it all is terrible and it sucks, but I think Zach still has an opportunity to grow from it if he attacks it mentally."

Wilson, drafted second overall