Ryan Fitzpatrick did not have the Week 3 everyone was hoping for. The New York Jets win streak was halted at two games after the Philadelphia Eagles, dominated the team on Sunday. This now creates unwanted quarterback drama for the Jets as Geno Smith is healthy and active once again. Does that mean Fitzpatrick risks getting benched?
Fitzpatrick was enjoying a good ride as the starter. He beat the Browns and the Colts as the franchise was suddenly very high on the veteran. However, after an eye-opening loss the Eagles could changes be in the future? According to NJ.com, despite the return of Smith, Jets' fans still favor Fitzpatrick under center. Many fans stressed their love for the veteran and belief that he is the better fit for the offensive system in place and the franchise appears to agree.
According to Rich Cimini of ESPN.com, the one bad performance from Fitzpatrick is not enough to force Smith into the starting job. Head coach Todd Bowles still holds faith in the veteran despite the three interceptions tossed against the Eagles and the several missed throws.
"Ryan's our starter," Bowles said, via ESPN.com.
Fitzpatrick cannot shoulder all of the blame for the loss. The Jets were without Eric Decker and Chris Ivory who were missing in action with injuries. Brandon Marshall had one of the worst plays of his career as he attempted a lateral that went straight into the Eagles' hands. Special teams struggled to defend Darren Sproles as a return man. All in all, the Jets played terrible as a team. It was not just Fitzpatrick.
However, it must be believed that Fitzpatrick's leash just got a bit tighter. While the veteran is still the starter and could easily bounce back in Week 4, another poor performance could be when Smith starts to really come into the conversation. The quarterback has made it very clear he wants his starting job back and while he is content to play the No.2 role, if the team starts to lose Smith will get louder.
The biggest concern for the Jets could be the health of Decker. Ruled out for a knee injury, it is not clear what his timetable for a return is. After Marshall, the talent level at the spot drops off big time. The Jets could be forced to add someone to the roster as a result. With Reggie Wayne, Preston Parker and Hakeem Nicks available, New York has quality options to look at which could help Fitzpatrick down the road.