NY Jets shouldn't bring back beloved former QB despite fan outcry

It feels like a lifetime ago that Mike White captivated the hearts and imagination of NY Jets fans and, if only for a fleeting moment, provided a sense of hope and optimism to a fan base starved for competent quarterback play.

White's NFL career hasn't gone as planned since his sudden rise to temporary stardom in Florham Park, and on Sunday, the former Jets QB was somewhat surprisingly released by the Miami Dolphins.

White entered the summer as the Dolphins' projected QB2 behind Tua Tagovailoa, a role he held last year as well, but was ultimately beaten out by the younger Skylar Thompson.

His release has sparked an outcry from many Jets fans who are begging their favorite team to bring back the former fan-favorite, but that seems unlikely to happen for a variety of reasons. And ultimately, that's probably for the best.

NY Jets have no reason to bring back Mike White

It may seem weird to say, but the Jets currently have a pretty full quarterback room. Aaron Rodgers and Tyrod Taylor are the clear-cut QB1 and QB2 on the depth chart, and it's unlikely the Jets carry three quarterbacks on their 53-man roster.

Rookie fifth-round pick Jordan Travis is likely to begin the season on the NFI list, meaning he will be sidelined for a minimum of six games. That said, the Jets have other young options for the time being.

Reigning UFL MVP Adrian Martinez flashed his upside this summer and seems likely to earn the temporary QB3 job as a developmental option on the practice squad. Martinez is expected to beat out undrafted rookie Andrew Peasley for that job.

While White might be a slight upgrade over Martinez, he turns 30 years old in March and doesn't offer any developmental upside. It should also be noted that White struggled mightily this summer with the Dolphins. Martinez's mobility and age should give him the edge.

The other aspect of this is that White might have QB2 offers from other teams following his release. It seems unlikely that he would accept a practice squad QB3 offer from the Jets, especially since that role is contingent upon Jordan Travis eventually returning.

White's miracle run with the Jets will forever be a beloved memory in Jets history, but neither side makes much sense for the other at this stage. The Jets' quarterback room is full, and White should have better opportunities elsewhere.

Don't count on a Mike White reunion in Florham Park.

More NY Jets news and analysis: