Ryan Fitzpatrick Makes His 2016 NFL Plans Clear

Ryan Fitzpatrick played like a Pro Bowler in 2015, but has not budged in contract talks with the New York Jets.  He finally broke his silence on the subject.

As it turns out the 33-year old fully plans to play this season.  Whether that will be with the Jets is still unclear given the stagnant discussions on a new deal, but he wasn’t shy about stating his desire to return.

"Fitzpatrick told SiriusXM NFL Radio that he still wants to be the Jets’ quarterback this season, even though he’s currently a free agent.“I had a great time with the guys last year and I want to continue doing this. I’m still preparing for the season,” Fitzpatrick said. “It’s been a process and the good thing about it is the discussions have been behind closed doors.”Fitzpatrick seems to realize that he’s going to have to settle for less money than quarterbacks who didn’t play as well as him last year — like Brock Osweiler and Sam Bradford — have received.“You would drive yourself crazy looking at other contracts around the league,” Fitzpatrick said."

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This will be welcome news for Brandon Marshall, who has made it clear his desire for the veteran quarterback to return every time he’s on a microphone.  There is plenty of sense in that.  Fitzpatrick threw 31 touchdowns last year and led the team to a 10-6 record, just missing the playoffs.  The general feeling is this roster is ready for a deep playoff run, but without him they’ll be forced to rely on the likes of Geno Smith, Bryce Petty or rookie Christian Hackenberg under center.

Suffice to say that would decrease their chances.

Truth is there won’t have to be movement for Ryan Fitzpatrick on a new deal until training camp.  He knows the offense under Chan Gailey well and seems to have a strong connection with the receivers.  As long as he doesn’t sacrifice the critical time in camp to prepare, things should be fine.  If nothing happens by then, there is definitely a reason for concern.