The New York Jets might not be publically declaring that Geno Smith will be the starting quarterback in 2014 because they simply are not sold on the future of the rookie. Smith showed signs of real struggle in his first season causing New York to create a Plan B for the upcoming year. While that plan could include Mark Sanchez, it might have a better shot of including free agent Josh McCown.
The New York Daily News is reporting the Jets are heavily interested in McCown as their No. 2 quarterback to hopefully create competition for Smith. If the Jets want quarterback competition, getting McCown is the best free agent to do so. McCown saw his stock rise to new heights after he filled in for the injured Jay Cutler. He played so well that the Bears were considering him as their full-time starter. The veteran opted not to retire and instead see if he can get another contract.
The Jets are worried that Smith will regress in his sophomore season. They certainly have a right to be worried considering that is the path Sanchez once took them down. McCown has the veteran knowledge and talent to step up if needed. However, the interest in Mccown once again brings up the question of Sanchez's future and just how invested the Jets are in their former starter.
The NFL Network reported over the weekend that Sanchez and his agent met with the Jets to discuss his future with the team. Details of the discussion have not been revealed, but it is very clear that the Jets' Plan B for quarterbacks does not include the former first-round draft pick.
Sanchez is simply too expensive to keep around. The quarterback is owed a $2 million roster bonus before a March deadline. The Daily News reports he is expected to be released prior to that deadline. If the Jets release him along with wide receiver Santonio Holmes, they save more than $35 million in salary cap space. That number is too good to pass up.
Sanchezi s four months out from shoulder surgery and is rehabbing in Southern California. Many believe there will be a strong market for the quarterback in free agency, it just will not be with the Jets.