New York Jets: Showing Interest in Nick Foles Adds Leverage

According to Los Angeles Times reporter Gary Klein, the Los Angeles Rams released quarterback Nick Foles, which presents an opportunity for the New York Jets.

Here’s Rams head coach Jeff Fisher’s statement on the roster move, per Klein:

"We have been in contact with Nick and his representation throughout the offseason, and we feel that this is the best decision for all parties involved. We appreciate the contributions that Nick has made to our organization in his time as a Ram and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors."

Foles wanted out and the organization finally granted his wish.

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With the Jets in a stare down with quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, the front office should attempt to force his hand in a public reach for Foles.

Over the past few months, the Jets have openly shared information about contract offers to Fitzpatrick, which makes the player and his agent seem a bit greedy at the negotiating table.

Now, the Jets’ brain trust should show interest in Foles to let Fitzpatrick know he’s not the only alternative option to Geno Smith. General manager Mike Maccagnan doesn’t have to sign the former Rams quarterback, but a little flirting in the media may cause Fitzpatrick to rethink his stance and return to the field.

General manager Mike Maccagnan doesn’t have to sign the former Rams quarterback, but a little flirting in the media may cause Fitzpatrick to rethink his stance and return to the field.

It’s all about leverage.

At the moment, the Jets have the leverage with Smith preparing to practice with the starters and head coach Todd Bowles supporting him. With Foles in the conversation, Fitzpatrick would compete for the Jets’ attention in a time-sensitive situation.

In 2013, under offensive guru Chip Kelly, Foles threw 27 touchdown passes and only two interceptions while completing 64 percent of his passes en route to a Pro Bowl.

At 27 years old, he’s still a redeemable talent with the ability to lead an offense. If the Jets actually like him as a potential starter or someone to push Smith during training camp, the front office should pull the trigger on a deal.

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According to ESPN’s Ed Werder, the Jets and Fitzpatrick remain distant in their contract talks:

The silence on both sides bodes well for Smith. However, interest in another quarterback, who’s younger with minimal playoff experience trumps a 33-year-old geezer, in NFL quarterback standards, who’s never played in the postseason.

With the added leverage, we would see just how much Fitzpatrick wants to play for the Jets in the upcoming season. Furthermore, instead of handing over the starting position to Smith by default, veteran competition should push him on the practice field.