Former NFL star Ryan Fitzpatrick criticized Miami Dolphins quarterback Zach Wilson for his decision to wear No. 0 during the 2025 season. Wilson, who previously played for the New York Jets and Denver Broncos, had his number listed on the official Dolphins roster page. Fitzpatrick expressed his belief that wearing No. 0 would not help Wilson be taken seriously as he attempted to rebuild his career as an NFL starter. Fitzpatrick suggested that perception matters in the NFL and that choosing to wear a unique number like No. 0 could potentially harm Wilson’s image as a serious quarterback.
Wilson was originally selected by the Jets as the No. 2 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. He had a mixed record as a starter with the Jets, and eventually ended up as a backup with the Broncos before signing with the Dolphins. During the 2023 season, Wilson unexpectedly started 11 games due to an injury to Aaron Rodgers. However, he ultimately found himself as a backup once again, this time to Tua Tagovailoa. Fitzpatrick’s comments were likely influenced by Wilson’s fluctuating career trajectory and his desire to see the young quarterback succeed in the league.
Fitzpatrick’s criticism of Wilson’s choice to wear No. 0 sparked a debate about the significance of jersey numbers in the NFL. While some may argue that a number is just a number, others believe that certain numbers carry weight and can impact a player’s image and perception among fans, coaches, and teammates. In the highly competitive world of professional football, even seemingly minor details like a jersey number can have an impact on how a player is perceived by others in the industry.
Wilson, as a young quarterback looking to establish himself as a viable starter in the NFL, may face challenges in gaining respect and credibility if his choice of jersey number is seen as unconventional or unprofessional. Fitzpatrick’s comments reflect the intense scrutiny and expectations that come with playing quarterback at the professional level, where even small decisions can be subjected to critique and analysis. Ultimately, Wilson will need to prove himself on the field through his performance and leadership skills in order to earn the respect of his peers and establish himself as a legitimate starting quarterback in the league.
The conversation surrounding Wilson’s choice of number highlights the complexities of navigating the NFL landscape as a young player. As Wilson works to rebuild his career and establish himself with a new team, he will need to navigate the challenges of perception and image in addition to the pressures of on-field performance. By taking note of feedback from veteran players like Fitzpatrick and considering how his choices may impact his standing in the league, Wilson can position himself for success and strengthen his chances of achieving his goals as an NFL quarterback. Ultimately, Wilson’s performance on the field will be the most important factor in determining his success and legacy in the NFL.
