I was waiting to see how the final game played out before bringing up my thoughts on the future at quarterback for the New York Jets.
It took about fifteen or so weeks, but we finally saw some progression at the most important position. Pocket presence, ball security, accuracy...all so much better during the last quarter of the season.
It may come as a shock to almost everyone here, but I think we have to stick with Geno Smith in 2014.
..but not without a legitimate competition from a worthy veteran and a mid-round rookie. It cannot be given to him after such an inconsistent season, even after the strong finish.
When I say worthy veteran, I mean someone that can come in and actually play. Not some mentor type like David Garrard or Mark Brunell. The front office needs to target veterans with short-to-medium term starting ability.
They also need to continue to draft QBs until someone solidifies himself in that spot. We don't have that yet. This team has played itself out of a shot at a top QB prospect. And the franchise would risk a crippling a rebuild if we gave up multiple high picks to trade up for one. Instead, the Jets need to find some talent at the position in the middle-to-later rounds.
With all of that said, we should not build around Geno Smith. But the offense should definitely be the focal point of the offense.
Wideouts, offensive linemen, and tight ends need to be upgraded through the draft and free agency. These pieces need to be added to the puzzle.
And if Smith stays at this level or regresses, the pieces will still be there for whoever the next NYJ QB will be. Keep building it up, and success will come.
This is an incredible draft for teams that need wide receivers. We're in a good spot moving forward.
