Geno Smith's first year in the NFL has been plagued by rookie mistakes. The quarterback has struggled with turnovers through five weeks in the season while showing flashes of potential. Without a true veteran on the roster to help guide Smith during the year, something Mark Sanchez was supposed to do, the Jets have brought back David Garrard to serve as the rookie's mentor.
Yes, Garrard, the quarterback that retired due to knee issues is coming back for the Jets. Hear that? It is the sound of excitement from the Gang Green faithful. Garrard made his first appearance in the Jets locker room wearing a t-shirt that read, "Some things just won't retire." It is fitting for the veteran who said sitting around during retirement just did not suit him.
"I didn't want to turn 50, look back, and be that guy that said, 'What if I just called somebody?'" Garrard said, via USA Today Sports. "I'm glad I did."
Garrard originally signed with the Jets back in March to be the veteran that pushes both Sanchez and Smith along. However, knee troubles forced him into an early retirement. Feeling healthy once again, the 35-year old was removed from the reserve-reitred list and placed on the exempt list. He can attend practices and meetings for the time being. This means he officially becomes Smith's second coach.
Garrard called general manager John Idzik about looking into a possible return. When he realized the door was still open, he opted to take another chance with the team.
"I started to get some really good feedback while talking to him," Garrard said. "I told him, 'Hey, if there's anything I can do to help you guys out in any kind of way, I know my veteran leadership in the meeting rooms, the practice fields and really helping Geno continue to grow, I would love to come back and help you guys.'"
In his first practice back, Garrard spent all the time with Smith. He praised the rookie for what he has accomplished so far. While Garrard understands his role as a backup, he is confident that if the Jets needed him to step in and play, he would be ready when his number is called.
Garrard has not played in a regular-season game since 2010. Injuries have kept him primarily as a backup. With Garrard back on the team, the future of Brady Quinn remains uncertain as well as the future of Matt Simms.