New York Jets: Making Geno Smith Backup QB is Right Move
The New York Jets are trimming down their roster to 53 players before the season starts. In addition to that, they are also setting their depth chart.
It has been somewhat of a wild offseason for the New York Jets. There were two major contract negotiations that led to a lot of drama this offseason. The biggest storyline for the Jets was without a doubt surrounding their quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick.
After having a career year and leading the Jets to a 10-6 record last season, Fitzpatrick was without a contract. When it didn’t look like Fitzpatrick was going to be returning, Geno Smith was preparing to be the starter.
Prior to Fitzpatrick becoming the starter last season, it was Smith’s job. A fight in the locker room resulted in Smith losing his job to recover from jaw surgery. When given the chance, Fitzpatrick never looked back.
This offseason, Smith has struggled but he was named as the backup for Fitzpatrick. This is without a doubt the right move for the Jets. After struggling in the preseason, some believed that Smith’s roster spot could be in jeopardy, but he should be safe.
The recent decision to not play Smith against the Philadelphia Eagles was an indication that Smith was going to make the team. Head coach Todd Bowles recently reaffirmed that Smith is going to be the backup for Fitzpatrick.
Smith came into the offseason with a clear lead over Bryce Petty, and a shoulder injury in the preseason finale made it impossible for Petty to jump Smith on the depth chart. Petty had a very impressive preseason, as he should also make the 53-man roster.
While both Petty and Christian Hackenberg might be the future for the Jets, they also have to think about the present. If anything did happen to Fitzpatrick, Smith would give the Jets the best chance to compete.
Finally, announcing Smith as the backup quarterback is certainly the right move for the Jets in 2016.
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