Zach Wilson, the Miami Dolphins’ backup quarterback and former No. 2 draft pick, is known for his powerful arm and playmaking ability, having faced various challenges on and off the field.
Zach Wilson’s journey is about strength as he deals with ADHD and recurring knee injuries.
Now with the Miami Dolphins, he’s facing a new challenge: his throws are “late” during minicamp.
Zach Wilson Received A Diagnosis Of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Zach Wilson was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a child, a condition that runs in his family.
ADHD can make it tough to stay focused, manage time, or handle high-pressure situations, challenges that could easily spill over into the demanding role of an NFL quarterback.
But Wilson has been open about his mental health, sharing how he’s learned to manage his ADHD over the years.
Wilson’s physical health has also been a frequent topic of discussion.
His career has been punctuated by knee injuries that have tested his strength.
In 2022, while with the New York Jets, Wilson suffered a bone bruise and a meniscus tear in his right knee during a preseason game.
The injury forced him to miss the start of the regular season, a setback for a young quarterback trying to prove himself.
Unfortunately, that wasn’t his only brush with knee trouble.
Later in the 2022 preseason, another knee injury sidelined him, raising concerns about his durability.
These injuries have followed him into his time with the Miami Dolphins, where he’s now the backup to starter Tua Tagovailoa.
Despite the setbacks, Wilson’s strong arm and quick release keep coaches optimistic about his potential, but staying healthy remains a critical piece of the puzzle.
The “Late” Issue At Dolphins Minicamp
Since signing a one-year, $6 million deal with the Miami Dolphins in 2025, Wilson has been working to revive his career after tough stints with the New York Jets and Denver Broncos.
However, his shift to Miami’s fast-paced offense hasn’t been smooth.
During the team’s mandatory minicamp in June 2025, Wilson struggled with being “late” on his throws, a problem he says he’s never faced before.
Wilson shared with reporters after a minicamp session
“It’s crazy because I’ve never been told before at past places like, ‘Hey, you’re late. Even with a strong arm, it’s not like, ‘Hey, you’re late on this throw.”
Via NY Post
Miami’s offense, designed to capitalize on the speed of receivers like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, demands precise timing and quick decisions.
Wilson’s tendency to hold onto the ball too long has led to interceptions and missed opportunities, frustrating coaches and fans alike.
Head coach Mike McDaniel, however, remains encouraged by Wilson’s progress.
“He looks like a guy that has been through some shit and found his way through it, because it does not make him worse. He learns from it.”
Via NBC Sports
While the “late” issue is a work in progress, McDaniel and quarterbacks coach Darrell Bevell see potential in Wilson, viewing him as a project worth investing in.
Wilson’s role as Tua Tagovailoa’s backup is vital due to Tua’s injury history.
With a career 57% completion rate and 25 interceptions, concerns about Wilson’s performance remain, as he may see significant playing time in 2025.
The Dolphins drafted rookie QB Quinn Ewers, who may challenge Wilson for the backup role, especially with rumors of a potential trade for Drew Lock.
Despite The Challenges, Wilson’s Story Is Far From Over
His move to Miami offers a fresh start, and the support of coaches like McDaniel and Bevell could be the key to unlocking his potential
McDaniel said, highlighting his belief in Wilson’s ability to grow-:
“Coming in, I’m going to challenge the guy because at the quarterback position, you are supremely challenged every drive, every quarter”
Via NBC Sports
Wilson’s journey highlights that talent isn’t enough in the NFL. Now with the Dolphins, he aims to overcome his “draft bust” label, relying on his arm talent and mental toughness.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Zach Wilson to see if he can rise to the occasion.
His health, both physical and mental, will play a massive role in his success.
If he can overcome his knee issues, manage his ADHD effectively, and sync up with Miami’s high-speed offense, Wilson could silence his critics and carve out a meaningful role with the Dolphins.
For now, he’s a quarterback with huge potential, guiding a career filled with highs and lows, and fighting to write the next chapter on his terms.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Wilson was born in Draper, Utah, on August 3, 1999, and attended Corner Canyon High School, where he played high school football.
- In the 2021 NFL draft, Zach Wilson was selected second overall by the New York Jets.
- In June 2024, Wilson announced his engagement to girlfriend Nicolette Dellanno.
