FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) – Ryan Fitzpatrick’s bushy beard is already in midseason form. The New York Jets hope his command of the offense gets there, too. Quickly.
The veteran quarterback is suddenly an NFL starter again, but not exactly how he – or anyone else – envisioned.
Fitzpatrick assumed the starting role Tuesday after Geno Smith was lost for at least six to 10 weeks with a broken jaw after being punched by teammate Ikemefuna Enemkpali in the locker room.
“It was an unfortunate situation, something that I can’t look backward at,” Fitzpatrick said Tuesday. “I have to look forward and do the best I can to get on the same page as quickly as possible.”
General manager Mike Maccagnan acquired Fitzpatrick from Houston in March as insurance for Smith, who is entering his third season after two shaky years. Fitzpatrick joining the Jets was largely overshadowed after the team also traded for wide receiver Brandon Marshall and made a huge splash in free agency with a number of signings, including cornerbacks Darrelle Revis, Antonio Cromartie and Buster Skrine.