The New York Jets will more than likely have quarterback Geno Smith starting in 2016. The ramifications will be finally seeing what he has in the grand scheme of things.
Last offseason during training camp, the punch heard around the world created quite the stir with the New York Jets. At the time, quarterback Geno Smith was punched in the jaw by a teammate over an altercation involving money he owed. Not only did Smith miss time due to his severe injury but it kept him out of the spotlight all season long as quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick put up a fantastic season in his place as starter.
Related Story: Geno Smith will prove doubters wrong
This time around, fans and analysts alike never foresaw that Fitzpatrick would hold firm in his beliefs that he’s worth the kind of money usually given to franchise quarterbacks. The kind of big money that is given to top quarterbacks that can consistently win football games for a decade or so and not just for a year or two.
Whether you’re for or against the return of Fitzpatrick, as time continues to pass it’s looking more likely that he isn’t coming back. In such a case, Smith starting for the Jets in 2016 will bring very good ramifications one way or the other.
Throughout his young career, Smith has never had such top talent around him. From a consistent offensive line, offensive weapons like Brandon Marshall, Eric Decker and Matt Forte, this is truly the best team he’s ever had around him and is the final test to see if Smith is able to handle being a consistent starting quarterback.
More from The Jet Press
- NY Jets should target TE Hunter Henry in free agency
- NY Jets: Why the team should target cornerback Shaquill Griffin
- NY Jets reportedly non-tendering linebacker Harvey Langi
- NY Jets: Why the team should not cut Jamison Crowder
- NY Jets should try to sign Kenny Golladay in free agency
If Smith can thrive and put up a solid season, it’ll go to show that all he needed was the right development, talent and guidance to reach his potential.
If Smith falters and once again continues to struggle with poor decision making or being a turnover machine, then he will more than likely be playing his last season with the Jets.
Either way, it’s in the best interest of the Jets to finally give Smith the support and leadership needed to succeed.
Early reports out of organized team activities and mandatory mini-camp so far this offseason have been positive for Smith. He’s been showing off his arm strength, accuracy and many of his teammates have been telling the media he’s becoming a more vocal leader.
The ramifications are great for Smith leading the charge this upcoming season. By the looks of it, Smith might deliver a quality year as the Jets will more than likely launch a potent rushing attack and use their top-notch defense to be their main strengths of the team.
must read: Quincy Enunwa poised for a breakout season
Overall, there is no need to put pressure on Smith to throw for 50+ passes in a regular season game since their commitment to the run should enable them to keep those chains moving. Offensive coordinator Chan Gailey can do what he does best and put Smith in an offensive system catered to his strengths combined with a running game that will make the Jets win plenty of football games in 2016.