Chad Pennington: A Look Back at a True New York Jet

Chad Pennington made his retirement official on Thursday, deciding it was best for his family if he didn’t attempt one last comeback. Today, we are going to take a look at the career of a guy who was much maligned during his time with the Jets. He also, was vastly underrated, was a talented QB, and had the heart of a champion. He never attained his ultimate goal in NY, which was a Super Bowl championship. He was, however, a true Jet in every sense of the word, and deserved a better fate. Let’s look back.

Chad was drafted in the first round of the 2000 draft by the Jets, with the 18th pick overall. He began his career watching and learning from incumbent starter, Vinny Testaverde.

That all changed in 2002, when coach Herman Edwards brought Pennington into the Jets week 4 game in Jacksonville to replace a slumping Testaverde. The Jets were blown out that day, but Pennington played well, going 21-34 passing for 281 yards. Edwards installed Chad as the starter the following week against the Chiefs, and although the Jets lost a close game, Pennington cemented his role as the new QB. He went 22-29 for 237 yards and 2 TDs vs 1 INT. This accuracy became the hallmark of Pennington’s 2002 season, and his career.