NY Jets: Ryan Fitzpatrick expected to hit free agency

Jan 3, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills defensive end Mario Williams (94) dives to sack New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) during the first half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills defensive end Mario Williams (94) dives to sack New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) during the first half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

When it comes to the negotiations between the NY Jets and quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, sources are confirming that both sides are far apart as he’s expected to hit free agency.

The harsh reality of another NFL offseason is that one never knows what can truly happen at any given moment. At this point in time, as confirmed by Marc Sessler of NFL.com, Fitzpatrick is expected to become a free agent and test the market to see what teams are interested in his services.

The Jets put up a memorable season last year, going 10-6 and exceeding expectations thanks to a new leadership regime plus top quality acquisitions. One of which was Fitzpatrick that easily was a catalyst on offense and pushed the envelope in his first season with the Jets.

In 2015, Fitzpatrick totaled 3,905 passing yards on 335 completions for 31 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. Not many expected him to play such a high level of football, let alone break the single-season record for most touchdown passes ever for a Jets’ quarterback.

More from The Jet Press

Due to his amazing year, Fitzpatrick knows that the Jets need him a whole lot more than he needs them.

As brutal as reality is, the Jets don’t have as much money to play with this time around like last year as he’s undoubtedly looking for a bigger financial contract from his outstanding season, regardless if he has to relocate yet again in his career.

Nobody would ever really know how these contract negotiations have been going between the Jets and Fitzpatrick but there is no doubt that the latest deal for quarterback Sam Bradford had to have played a part in them. His two-year/$36M contract with the Philadelphia Eagles more than likely set the standard this offseason for free agent quarterbacks.

More jets: NY Jets: Exclusive interview with Wesley Walker Part II

Overall, hopefully both sides hammer out a deal but time is ticking. Anything can happen faster than a New York minute but by the sound of it, prepare for the reality that Fitzpatrick might be playing for another team next season. That would put the Jets in a very tough situation with the most important position on the team.

Schedule