The New York Jets are hoping they are getting their quarterback rotation set after doubt continues with Geno Smith. The Jets had remained quiet on the free agent market when it came to quarterbacks until they pulled out a somewhat surprising trade on Wednesday that might mean taking someone in the draft is no longer a priority moving forward. Is Ryan Fitzpatrick the guy for the Jets?
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Jets have acquired Fitzpatrick from the Houston Texans for a late-draft pick. The trade was fairly low risk on the Jets part and it puts a solid veteran with Smith who needs some guidance after two-straight seasons of struggling production. However, is Marshall enough to help the rebuilding Jets move forward from the last two years?
Fitzpatrick could certainly be an upgrade in the passing attack. After trading for Brandon Marshall, New York would like a much better passing game to work with in 2015. Smith has yet to give them that option. Jets fans will make the argument that the team still does not have a long-term option at the quarterback position. Both Todd Bowles and Chan Gailey made it clear they are uncertain what Smith offers them which is why they traded for Fitzpatrick in the first place. Fitzpatrick is merely a stop-gap option which leads to the question of what the Jets will do in the future.
With the No. 6 draft pick, trade interest in Mariota is dwindling. The Philadelphia Eagles have acquired Sam Bradford. The St. Louis Rams have Nick Foles. The Buffalo Bills, Houston Texans and Cleveland Browns have got their new quarterbacks. The only other team showing interest in Mariota could be the Washington Redskins. They draft one spot ahead of the New York Jets.
Getting Mariota would certainly set the Jets up for the future. If they feel he is the guy that can carry the franchise, the move must be made. According to the New York Daily News, the Jets are still keeping an eye on the Oregon star and could bring him in for a visit. Most believe Mariota can start Week 1. Both Fitzpatrick and Smith have had their struggles that could make the move worth it.
