New York Jets: 2018 Offseason predictions, 7-round mock draft, Vol. 2.0

FLORHAM PARK, NJ - JANUARY 21: New York Jets Owner Woody Johnson (C) poses with new General Manager Mike Maccagnan (L) and new Head Coach Todd Bowles after they were introduced to the media during a press conference on January 21, 2015 in Florham Park, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Schultz /Getty Images) /

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 24: Josh McCown #15 of the New York Jets high fives the fans prior to an NFL game against the Los Angeles Chargers at MetLife Stadium on December 24, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

Re-Sign: Josh McCown

The Jets cannot have a repeat of the Ryan Fitzpatrick fiasco in 2016. While McCown did have the best season of his career, they need to go into negotiations with two things in mind. McCown must be the backup going into camp, and they take a hard stance on a contract with a take-it-or-leave-it offer.

By the time the season begins, McCown will be 39, and despite what Tom Brady is doing by defying time (so far), McCown shouldn’t be the answer the Jets are seeking. He should only become the starter if Christian Hackenberg shows he can’t play.

They do need a backup, though. McCown has shown an ability to step in an win some games when he’s needed to. In 2017, he also showed that, if given the right help, he can even put strings of good games together.

By no means, though, does that mean he can garner the ridiculous $12 million contract that Fitzpatrick got. He’s a backup and nothing more, and he should get top backup money as the Jets need a backup and he’s the best available. So, he should be near the bottom of the top priorities, but still a top priority, for the right price.

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