The New York Jets surprised many in Week 1 with their very productive offense led by Ryan Fitzpatrick. The veteran quarterback got his first start with the team while Geno Smith heals from a broken jaw and did everything to get the first win of the season. However, there was a chance that Fitzpatrick was not meant to be the Week 1 starter for the team as reports of trade interest surface around the New York Jets.
According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the Jets inquired about a trade for Kirk Cousins before the concussion to Robert Griffin III forced him to the bench. At the time, Cousins was the backup for the Redskins and it was looking like he would not see the field, leading the Jets to inquire about a potential trade following the injury to Smith. Rapoport writes that the Washington Redskins were not even willing to consider the trade as they believe Cousins will be a big part of their future moving forward. It appears they made the right decision.
While the trade did not go down, it does raise question marks around the future of the quarterback position. Clearly, Fitzpatrick is not the long-term option for New York, but do the Jets think Smith is not either? Head coach Todd Bowles made it clear that he would go with the hot hand despite who is healthy and who is not at the quarterback position. Right now that is Fitzpatrick and if it continues, Smith will not see the field. That puts next year into question as many believe the Jets could aim to replace the former second-round draft pick in the offseason.
For now, it is Fitzpatrick leading the charge with Bryce Petty as his backup. He proved to be productive with both Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker who led the receiving game. Chris Owusu also shined as the third option over Jeremy Kerley. Fitzpatrick also benefitted from a strong wide receiver duo in Chris Ivory and Bilal Powell. If he can keep up the success, the Jets will keep Fitzpatrick under center.
New York will have questions regarding the quarterback position for 2016 regardless of who plays this year. They could easily make a move to try and sign Cousins when his contract is up next summer. Mike Glennon, Zach Mettenberger and Colt McCoy will also be options. If Smith is not able to get on the field in 2015, he runs the risk of being replaced regardless of his health.
