Examining the quarterback situation of the New York Jets is a headache and a half. John Idzik continues to not put any long-term faith in a single player on the roster despite Geno Smith starting every game of his rookie season. With Mark Sanchez still owed money and Matt Simms recently signed to a contract extension, it only makes sense the Jets are considering adding another player to the regime.
Rich Cimini of ESPNNewYork.com reports the Jets are considering making a trade for current Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub. With a new head coach in place, the Texans are prepared to move on with a rookie as the starting quarterback. Bill O'Brien is targeting both Johnny Manziel and Blake Bortles, not even mentioning Schaub as an option.
If the Jets are looking at Schaub, it would not be for a starting role. Cimini believes if Idzik and company are checking the availability of Schaub it is as a mentor job for Smith. Schaub's struggles in 2013 were simply too much for any team to consider the veteran a starter. He ended the year with a string of injuries. However, the Jets would love for his leadership to rub off on Smith who did not always display the greatest amount of maturity last year.
Schaub's price tag is likely going to be too high for the Jets if they do not need him as a starter. This would leave New York to target a free agent instead. Michael Vick has already said he is open to the idea of signing on with the team. Speaking during Super Bowl media day, Vick said he would love the option of playing for Rex Ryan and competing alongside Smith. Again, Vick is not a starting option but merely a veteran there to push the young star.
If the Jets intend on adding someone, they must first cut a player. The team is pushing the salary cap which means Sanchez should already be packing his bags. After missing all of 2013 with a shoulder injury, the quarterback is a $13.1 million cap charge next season. The Jets simply cannot take that on if they intend on committing to Smith. The team has some time to shop around. Sanchez is not owed any money until March 25, leaving the Jets with time to make a decision.
