The New York Jets do not want a quarterback competition headlining their offseason. Over the past few years with players like Mark Sanchez and Michael Vick also on the roster, there has never been stability at the position. However, with a new coaching regime in place, the Jets are making it clear that despite Ryan Fitzpatrick and Bryce Petty, Geno Smith is the No. 1 guy for the team.
As the Jets kick off organized team activities, Smith is sitting at the top of the depth chart. New offensive coordinator Chan Gailey told the media that it will stay that way through Week 1 of the season as Smith is the starting quarterback with Fitzpatrick, Petty and Matt Simms as the backhalf of the rotation. According to Brian Costello of the New York Post, when asked if there would be a quarterback competition, Gailey said no, "Because Geno's the starter."
This certainly goes against most of the reports surrounding the Jets over the past few months. Heading into the NFL Draft, ESPNNewYork.com's Rich Cimini was reporting Marcus Mariota and Jameis Winston were targets because of the doubt surrounding Smith as a potential franchise quarterback. General manager Mike Maccagnan confirmed that doubt when he said he wanted a competitive environment at the quarterback spot which is why the team acquired Fitzpatrick in a trade.
Fitpatrick's injury could be playing a large role in this. With OTAs underway, the veteran cannot be overly active as he recovers from a broken leg suffered last December. Smith is automatically at the top of the depth chart as a result. Fitzpatrick is expected back for training camp.
"We're projecting [Fitzpatrick] to be back ready to go for training camp," Maccagnan said, via Darryl Slater of NJ.com. "He'll be involved in some of the offseason stuff, OTAs. But again, [we are] taking it into consideration, too, the rehabilitation for his injuries. He may be limited to a certain degree in the OTAs, so I think Geno and Matt [Simms] will definitely get more reps, probably. Ryan will be involved also through the offseason program, but again, somewhat limited because of the rehabilitation from the injury."
Injuries were a large issue at the start of workouts which could help determine the depth chart. Stevan Ridley is sitting out as he recovers from a knee injury. That will push Zac Stacy and Chris Ivory to the front of the depth chart. Dee Milliner is also out with an Achilles injury which will only further the idea of a Darrelle Revis, Antonio Cromartie tandem at the cornerback spot.
