Both Geno Smith and Ryan Fitzpatrick are injured. The New York Jets have said that both quarterbacks are day-to-day, but that Fitzpatrick's thumb injury could be worse as it will require surgery. The logical explanation is that Smith becomes the starter for Week 9. However, the Jets reportedly think an injured Fitzpatrick gives them a better shot at winning than a healthier Smith which could be a tell-tale sign of the future.
According to Rich Cimini of ESPN, Fitzpatrick has been named the starter over Smith. The quarterback was able to return to the practice field with enough time to get ready for the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jets are not concerned about the torn ligament in the quarterback's left hand as they believe the veteran gives them a better chance to stay alive in the league. Understandably, Smith was not thrilled that Fitzpatrick would be getting the nod over him.
"You want to play, you want to be out there, you want to have a chance," said Smith, via ESPN.com. "But I understand what's going on, so I'm not really that disappointed."
The decision to start Fitzpatrick is concerning considering he could easily re-injury his hand and make matters worse. Facing the Jacksonville Jaguars, it would be the perfect time to put Smith under center and at least give the quarterback a chance to show what he can do, unless the Jets feel like they have seen enough. It is no secret that Smith's future is under fire as the quarterback has yet to truly grasp the role of a starting quarterback.
According Cimini, Smith should be concerned about his future as the gap between him and Fitzpatrick continues to get wider. Bowles did not let the decision of a starting quarterback for Week 9 linger. He made the call on Wednesday even when Smith was healthier than the veteran. While Fitzpatrick is not the long-term option at quarterback for the Jets, it is clear they do not think Smith is easier as the veteran has the trust of the locker room. One player is in the corner of Smith's. Brandon Marshall told NJ.com that he believes Smith should be given a second chance.
"When did I get here (with the Jets)? April? May? Since that day, I've been a fan of Geno Smith. I'm going to stick to that. I love him. I'm proud of the kid," Marshall said, via NJ.com. "Now I'm not just going to take this stance because I'm his teammate. But you take a kid who hasn't played all year and you throw him in that game, and look what he did. Can we give a kid, a young kid, a second chance?"
For now Fitzpatrick is under center and preparing to face the Jaguars. Marshall along with Eric Decker are expected to have big games. According to ESPN.com, Decker is dealing with a lingering knee injury that makes him a game-time decision. Chris Ivory will continue as the leading rusher while Zac Stacy is expected to continue as his backup. Stevan Ridley continues to remain limited in practice, but could see playing time in Week 9.
