Ryan Fitzpatrick certainly did not predict his 2015 season would go like it currently is. The quarterback was sent to the New York Jets after getting injured with the Houston Texans. He was immediately named the backup to Geno Smith only to get thrown into the starting job right before the year began. Now, Fitzpatrick is winning games for New York and becoming the fan favorite while Smith watches from the sidelines.
Fitzpatrick might not be the long-term option for the Jets, but he is thriving in the short-term outlook. That could end up causing major changes for the team down the road as Smith continues to sit out despite finally being healthy again. The quarterback made it clear that while the Jets were Fitzpatrick's team, he wants to be the starter. The veteran told the media that there is no drama between the two right now. Fitzpatrick is aware that one bad start means Smith takes over and he is simply working hard to improve.
"You come in, watch the film, try to learn from it then put it away and move on. Whether it's a bunch of touchdowns or a bunch of picks, you've got to come in with an open mind and learn from your mistakes and get to the next game. We're at 2-1 and we've got a great opportunity ahead of us this week," Fitzpatrick said, via the Daily Mail.
Fitzpatrick is certainly not the most exciting quarterback option and he has his flaws, but the quarterback is doing what it takes to win. One thing benefitting the quarterback is the rise of Chris Ivory who is having a breakout season. He already has 314 yards and three touchdowns on the season as he keeps the offense balanced. According to Rich Cimini of ESPN, the Jets are working out running back options like Travaris Cadet as Bilal Powell deals with a groin injury. For now, Ivory is proving that he can do it on his own.
Injuries will be a big thing for New York moving forward. Fitzpatrick struggled with Eric Decker out of the lineup. The receiver returned and proved to be critical against the Dolphins. Heading into the bye week, Powell along with Leonard Williams are dealing with injuries that make them uncertain moving forward. The Jets are getting Sheldon Richardson and Devin Smith back healthy which will help with depth during the next few weeks if certain players remain out.
