Mike White injury update: Why is the Jets QB not playing tonight vs. Jaguars on TNF?

As the New York Jets took on the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday Night Football, Mike White was standing on the sidelines, not involved in the game. For anyone who saw the way today's starting quarterback, Zach Wilson, played against the New England Patriots, one would have assumed White would get an extended run under center.

However, Mike White suffered an injury in Week 14 against the Buffalo Bills, breaking a couple of ribs in the process. He was ruled out for Week 15, but it was hoped that he would be back for Week 16 (today). Unfortunately, it has not worked out that way for him. Team doctors ruled him out, and even though White consulted other doctors, none of them cleared him for contact. It is a blow for the injured quarterback as he had a chance to establish himself as the undisputed starter. Zach Wilson was able to take over instead.

Not surprising but @RapSheet says #Jets QB Mike White is out ‘at least 2 weeks’ with 3 rib fractures. Which means it’s Zach Wilson time vs #Lions today + #Jaguars on #TNF & we’ll see what he does with it. 🎥 @nflnetwork #TakeFlight https://t.co/LULSkKUTxL

When will Mike White return from injury?

It is tough luck for Mike White, but there is a good chance he will be back in the coming weeks. It was thought that he would be out for two weeks after he was initially injured. That way, this will be the last game he is out of, and he should be back by next week. Given that he believed that he could have gotten a doctor to sign off on him returning this week, there should be cautious optimism that he is getting healthier.

However, if he comes back next week, there is no guarantee that he will take back the starting spot. Zach Wilson will now be the starter in two games going into the coming week. He was a first-round pick and someone the Jets wanted to be their franchise quarterback.

Over a year ago #Jets HC Robert Saleh made a promise to Zach Wilson (@ZachWilson) during his draft day call, ‘the biggest thing I want to tell you, just remember: this organization is going to lift you. Not the other way around.’ Mission accomplished ✅ 🎥 @nyjets #TakeFlight https://t.co/Io8hJLcTqr

Head coach Robert Saleh has reiterated this week that Wilson is still the presumptive future of the franchise. He said,

"The frustrating thing is that this kid is going to be a good quarterback, but the NFL and this new instant-coffee world that we're in just doesn't want to give people time."

This is not the best news for Mike White. If Zach Wilson can show something special against the Jaguars today, he will be tipped to take back the starting spot. If he is able to lead the Jets into the playoffs, it would make it even tougher for White to find a way back. No wonder then that he seems so desperate to return to the field.