In an attempt to bounce back to what is turning out to be a disappointing season, the New York Jets have made a drastic change in its lineup by appointing backup quarterback Geno Smith as the team's new starting QB. However, since Ryan Fitzpatrick doesn't feel too happy about this decision, he could end up demanding for a trade.
Head coach Todd Bowles announced on Tuesday that Smith will head out as the Jets' starting quarterback starting on Week 7, when the team takes on the Arizona Cardinals. This means Fitzpatrick, who hasn't led the Jets to a winning game since Week 2, will now be Smith's backup QB.
Of course, any quarterback in the league will not be happy with losing his starting spot. And this is exactly what Fitzpatrick is feeling right now.
"I don't like it," he said. "I'm disappointed, and I'm disappointed that we're making the change, but disappointed in my play this year as well. The competitor in me really wants to be out there, and the guy that was the leader of this team last year and the beginning of this year wants to be out there."
"But it's the decision that Todd made, and I've got to respect his decision," he added. "But I don't have to like it."
Current Fitzpatrick's current sentiments, he could seek out other options that will allow him to return to the starting role. However, if Smith is able to successfully improve the Jets' winning record, chances are, Fitzpatrick will remain as his backup.
If this happens, Fitzpatrick will most likely demand a trade from the Jets. Surely, the New York organization will be able to find another team that's willing to take him in as a main passer especially given the number of starting quarterbacks this year that are currently dealing with injuries.
But, if a trade deal doesn't work out, Fitzpatrick's only chance could be the free agency next offseason, when his contract with the Jets expires. Although this will still give him the option to find a team to play in, he still might not be able to land a starting spot once the 2017 NFL season kicks off. That's because aside from next year's draft pick, today's injured quarterbacks may have already fully recovered next season. And, since Fitzpatrick will be 35 next year, teams will probably prefer a younger quarterback to take on the lead.
