Todd Bowles sets record straight on quarterbacks

The New York Jets have four quarterbacks on their roster so far as many wonder what the final depth chart will be in 2016. Head coach Todd Bowles sets the record straight.

Just like every offseason when it comes to the New York Jets, their quarterback situation is always a hot topic. At this point in time, the Jets have Ryan Fitzpatrick, Geno Smith, Bryce Petty and Christian Hackenberg on the depth chart. Rumors have been circulating that perhaps the Jets might trade a quarterback or even release one due to roster implications of having to keep four active quarterbacks.

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For a franchise that has had a terrible history of developing quarterbacks the right way, it wouldn’t make sense in the grand scheme of things to release a quarterback anytime soon. While it’s a bit unorthodox, it would be best if the Jets kept all four and keep the depth chart exactly how it should be.

Fitzpatrick wasn’t brought back on a one-year/$12M deal for anything other than to be their starter and develop those around him. Whether you agree with the decision or not, Fitzpatrick brings stability to the position as he continues to build upon his record-setting season last year.

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Smith is a more than capable backup and since both Petty/Hackenberg are nowhere near ready to start, won’t be losing his spot on the depth chart to either of them.

In essence, there really hasn’t been any kind of competition to have players move up or down on the depth chart.

The culture the Jets are trying to foster is one of coaching, training and developing all their quarterbacks to ensure everyone is honing their craft to get better.

Petty is looking sharp these days, but again, it’s just training camp and preseason football.

He’s not ready to be a backup or start anytime soon as he still has a way to go.

Even Hackenberg will be given the same treatment Petty got last year in that he will be learning from the sideline. It’s not only best for his personal development but the Jets are perfectly set at quarterback with Fitzpatrick and Smith ready to go.

In a recent press conference, head coach Todd Bowles squashed any rumors that Smith could lose his backup spot or if Petty/Hackenberg have a shot at dethroning him. Here’s what he said courtesy of the Media Relations Department of the Jets:

On the quarterback competition between Smith and Petty…

Geno is number two right now. You’re not making competition after one preseason game. Geno is number two. Fitz is number one. Bryce (Petty) is three. Hack (Christian Hackenberg) is four.

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Overall, it’s good to see Bowles set the record straight to avoid any distractions when it comes to how the depth chart looks like at quarterback. As the Jets continue to work out the kinks of their roster throughout the preseason, for now at least there is nothing to worry about them making any sudden moves at the positional group.