Offseason workouts are in full swing for the NFL which means the New York Jets quarterback battle has begun. Each year it is the same thing, one new face in the mix and everyone focuses on who is getting more reps in hopes that gives away hints at the future starter. Geno Smith likely did not expect to be competing once again for his roster spot, but that what happens what a player is a member of the Jets. So who is "favored" in this week of workouts?
Offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg is denying any idea of some kind of controversy. Smith started every game last season and after Mark Sanchez was released, it looked like his spot to return as the man in charge was safe. However, the Jets quickly signed Michael Vick and said the quarterback position was up for grabs. Mornhinweg simply says that Vick is there to help Smith progress.
"I think this thing will work beautifully," Mornhinweg said, via ESPN.com. "I expect Geno to progress at a high rate with Mike's help. It's just that simple. We're going to structure it a certain way. One thing I want to make sure of is that nothing impedes the young quarterback's progression. I'm talking about Geno. He progressed beautifully, and I'm talking the last quarter of the season. He played at a high level. "
The pot was stirred after Chris Johnson told reporters that head coach Rex Ryan said the starting quarterback spot had not been decided. Eric Decker furthered that belief noting he was concerned about the idea of a quarterback competition because it could hurt chemistry with the wide receivers. Welcome to the Jets, Decker.
Smith told reporters that he was confident he was still the Jets' starting quarterback despite the addition of Vick who would not have signed to New York if he did not believe there was a chance he could see a lot of field time. The Jets are clearly not sold on Smith as a long-term option just yet considering how incredibly inconsistent he was as a rookie.
"We brought Mike in to compete, to push Geno and to make Geno the very best he can be," Mornhinweg said. "He's 33 years old and he's still got it. I look at him as a young 33; he's still got it. He's going to compete hard, he's going to push, he's going to make Geno and the rest of the quarterbacks the very best they can be."
