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New York Jets: Todd Bowles Looks Toward Future at Quarterback

By Maurice Moton

Oct 9, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New York Jets head coach Todd Bowles on the sidelines against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half of their game at Heinz Field. The Steelers won, 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 9, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New York Jets head coach Todd Bowles on the sidelines against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half of their game at Heinz Field. The Steelers won, 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) leaves the field following the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Jets 28-3.
Oct 17, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) leaves the field following the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Jets 28-3. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Geno Smith’s Last Chance to Prove Himself

We wanted to see what Smith can accomplish with more offensive assets in the huddle until one punch erased the reality. Now, the fourth-year quarterback will have a golden opportunity to extend his tenure in New York like Fitzpatrick did last year.

Believe it or not, Smith could play well enough to earn a one-year deal while the two younger quarterbacks develop on the practice field. After making comments about “getting antsy,” the No. 2 becomes the No. 1 almost immediately. Bowles clearly states that Smith’s sideline talk had nothing to do with his decision.

There’s a slight issue with Smith’s comeback story. The Jets offensive line struggled along with Fitzpatrick, especially the right side. On the slightly brighter note, right tackle Breno Giacomini could come off the physically unable to perform list. He practiced this week, per New York Post reporter Brian Costello:

Despite Giacomini’s recent poor play, could he perform any worse than Ben Ijalana at the position?

Smith needs maximum protection in the pocket and ample talent around him to put his best work on film to date. Unlike the later Rex Ryan years with Gang Green, the Jets have an offense stocked with explosive and versatile players even without wideout Eric Decker.

With a better supporting cast, the coaching staff can fully evaluate Smith as a starting quarterback in this league. He’ll have 10 games to change the perception on his flawed history.

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