New York Jets: How to Fix the Quarterback Position

There has been a lot of talk concerning the QB position of the New York Jets. Fans have lost confidence in incumbent starter Geno Smith. Michael Vick‘s time with the Jets has run its course, and Matt Simms really can’t seriously be considered for the starting position.

Many fans are clamoring for the Jets to do what ever is necessary to acquire Marcus Mariota, while still others believe the Jets should draft Jameis Winston. Jets fans all seem to agree a change is needed at QB, and everyone seems to have their own opinion on how to fix the position. It is a growing debate among Jet fans, and will only grow with intensity as the off-season progresses.

Today I’m going to throw out my ideas of how the Jets can fix the position. I’ve ruled out both Mariota and Winston as Jet draft choices. I’ll also rule out the proposed Cutler trade. I’m not saying these options couldn’t happen, I’ll just omit them from this piece. Here’s how I’d attempt to fix the Jets quarterback position for 2015.

Next: The Short Term Fix

Nov 2, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback

Mike Glennon

(8) throws a pass against the Cleveland Browns during the fourth quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns won 22-17. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports

Everyone has the Tampa Bay Buccaneers taking QB Marcus Mariota with the first round pick of the 2015 NFL draft. If they do, I have to wonder where that leaves Mike Glennon in Tanpa Bay’s future. Lovie Smith doesn’t seem to have much use for Glennon, he played McCown over Glennon this season. Glennon might be seen as dispensable in Tampa.

I think Mike Glennon might be a part of the solution for the Jets. I think the Jets would be well served inquiring about Glennon’s availability. He’s not an instant starter,but he may very well be a part of the Jets solution however.

Glennon was drafted in the third round of the 2013 draft by Tampa Bay. He’s a big guy, and some fans advocated for the Jets to draft him in the same year they drafted Geno Smith. Glennon is a monstrous 6’7″/232 lb quarterback. He’s only been given a limited number of opportunities to play at the NFL level; he’s struggled at times, but also has shown an upside to his game.

Before you jump on me for suggesting Glennon, hear me out. Glennon has seen spot duty as a starter for a very poor football team in his young career. His numbers are far from spectacular but he has managed to throw for 29 touch downs in the last two years versus 15 interceptions. His completion rate is at 58% and he’s thrown for over 4,000 yds.

Glennon’s strong arm and his physical build make Glennon an intriguing project. A change of environment, a new quarterback coach and a new offensive scheme may be the break Glennon needs to get himself going. Taken as a third rounder, Tampa Bay wouldn’t be looking for much in compensation for Glennon, a mid to late round pick could seal the deal. Glennon has two years remaining on his rookie contract, making it attractive to the Jets, short-term at a very reasonable price.

Next: The Draft Choice

Nov 30, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Brent Hundley (17) throws a pass against the Southern California Trojans at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

As part of my plan the Jets acquire Glennon via trade for a mid rounder. In May’s draft I think they should trade down in the first round and draft Brent Hundley. Hundley is another project QB, but I think he too can play a part in fixing the QB position for the Jets. Hundley is 6’3″/222 pounds and has announced he will enter the draft this year after completing his junior year at UCLA. He’s been projected as a late first or early second round choice.

In his time at UCLA Hundley has thrown at a 66% completion rate. In 2014 Hundley threw for 3155 yds, 22 TD’s and just five interceptions. Over his career he’s totaled 9971 yards, 75 touchdowns and 25 interceptions. There is little argument that Hundley has the physical size and adequate arm strength to compete in the NFL. The question with Hundley is how long that development will take. His pocket presence and foot work will need to improve if he is to be considered an everyday starter. If the Jets can get him in the second round, I think he’d be worth the pick.

Next: The Competition

Jun 17, 2014; Florham Park, USA; New York Jets quarterbacks Geno Smith (7) and Michael Vick (1) during New York Jets minicamp at Atlantic Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports

The Jets now have Mike Glennon, Brent Hundley, and Geno Smith heading into camp. The competition can begin! The Jets will have three young arms with varying degrees of upside to their game. Two of them have NFL experience, and the third has the potential to be a starter in the future.

The Jets can accomplish this influx of young talent with very little investment. Glennon is just a two-year deal at a very fair price; it’s a low risk acquisition with a possible high-end return. Hundley can compete; he has the physical tools, and he can be seen as a future trade piece or as a starter if he develops. Geno Smith gets one more chance to prove his worth. Hundley and Glennon will push Smith’s game through camp.

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