New York Jets: Could Geno Smith really start in 2015?

By Luis Tirado Jr. | Apr 6, 2015

The New York Jets haven’t had stability at quarterback for quite some time now. I’ve always believed that if you don’t have a clear and successful option at that position, you won’t really go far in the NFL.

The Jets thought they had their franchise quarterback when they drafted Mark Sanchez back in 2009. Needless to say, it didn’t work out as envisioned. The Jets are back at the drawing board as to what to do at quarterback but there is still hope that their franchise quarterback is already on the roster in Geno Smith.

Now, before you start screaming at the very thought of me believing that Smith is the answer the Jets have been looking for, let me be clear about what could happen come next season. The Jets were able to acquire quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick in hopes of being a stop-gap at the position for the next year or so but he could have been brought in as insurance.

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Due to Fitzpatrick suffering a broken leg injury last season, he won’t be anywhere near ready to resume football activities until probably mid to late summer. According to Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News, the regime of the Jets in head coach Todd Bowles and general manager Mike Maccagnan have deemed Smith the starting quarterback heading into training camp.

Nov 30, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) looks for an open receiver during the third quarter against the Tennessee Titans at NRG Stadium. The Texans defeated the Titans 45-21. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

It’s basically Smith’s job to lose as I honestly believe the Jets brought in Fitzpatrick as a veteran insurance in case Smith falters and doesn’t earn the starting spot or if he implodes next season – like we’ve all seen him do in the past. This time around however, he might be at an advantage.

With a new offensive system coming in 2015 thanks to new offensive coordinator Chan Gailey, he will cater to Smith’s strengths and make him shine. I believe that like in his previous stints, Gailey will most likely incorporate more of a spread offense to really push the envelope offensively come next season.

There is a strong possibility that Smith could silence his critics and really give it his all in what could be his final chance to prove his worth. One can only imagine the level of frustration that Smith must have had throughout his professional career with the Jets as it has been quite the bumpy road.

Dec 7, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) throws during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Jets 30-24 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

So far in two years with the Jets, Smith has thrown for 5,571 yards, 25 touchdowns and 34 interceptions. When it comes to rookies and their development, I always give them a window of three years to see if they’re worth continuing to invest in. Since Smith is entering his third season, this should be the time he really rebounds and proves he can handle being an effective starter.

I’m very understanding with the growing pains in the transition from college football to the pros but if anything, Smith should really thrive under Gailey and put up some decent numbers. I’m confident that Gailey will retrain Smith in improving his mechanics and techniques this offseason to cut down his turnovers dramatically.

While many might get freaked out that Smith could once again be under center as a starter this upcoming season, just be patient and give it time for everything to come together. Even though the Jets might draft another quarterback, Smith could still emerge as a starter if he shines in training camp.

If he does start in 2015, it might be a completely different version of him than what we’ve seen so far. Especially under the watchful eyes of Gailey, who will no doubt elevate his game to entirely new levels. That’s why it’s all about leaving it to the hands of the professionals to see who gives the Jets the very best chances to win next season, even if it ends up coming down to sticking with Smith.

Next: New York Jets: Breaking down quarterback rumors

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