Ryan Fitzpatrick proves he’s worth every dollar for Jets

Sep 15, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) runs with the ball during the first half against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 15, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) runs with the ball during the first half against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick of the New York Jets proved he’s worth every dollar of his one-year/$12M contract in the grand scheme of things.

Fans, analysts, and even myself included were a bit skeptical when it came to the final contract offer given to quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick by the New York Jets. It was a one-year deal worth a little over $12M to guarantee him at least for the 2016 season which he signed literally in the final hour before training camp this past offseason.

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As early as Week 1, the Jets already heard the grumblings from fans due to a lackluster performance by the team in their season opener, especially on offense. The moment Fitzpatrick coughed up that interception on the final play of a potential game-winning drive, many went back to the “Same Old Jets” mentality.

It was way too early to hit the panic button as there is still plenty of football to play this season but heading into Week 2 against the Buffalo Bills, this was Fitzpatrick’s do-or-die moment. Would he get redemption against the team that sent him and the Jets packing in their season finale last season instead of a ticket to the NFL Playoffs?

Not only did Fitzpatrick rise to the occasion but he finally put to rest, at least for now, that he was worth every dollar in being brought back by the Jets. Yes, the contract stalemate dominated headlines this offseason and many, myself included, envisioned life without him. Many thought he was greedy in the grand scheme of things since he had premier weapons around him and was in an offense built for him to thrive in.

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If there were any doubts before, his huge performance could be just a small glimpse as to what awaits in the future.

Fitzpatrick eclipsed the 300-yard passing mark for the 13th time in his career against the Bills.

He totaled 374 passing yards, 24 completions, a touchdown and zero interceptions.

It was the first time he threw for over 300 yards since Week 13 of last season.

Fitzpatrick delivered at a time when the Jets absolutely needed it and put to rest any doubt that he is the best option to be their starting quarterback.

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Overall, Fitzpatrick proved he was worth fighting over to bring back and put to rest any doubts about his ability to get the job done. Sure, he doesn’t have arm strength like many other quarterbacks in the NFL do but when it comes to winning with this particular team, he already has 11 wins under his belt so far in his tenure with the Jets.

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