The New York Jets have to do something about their quarterback situation. Enter Christian Hackenberg?
In a division that has been owned by Tom Brady and the Patriots, perhaps there is no team with more questions heading into the 2017 season than the New York Jets. After jettisoning so many of players from last season’s roster, highlighted by departures of Darrelle Revis and Brandon Marshall, it appears a lean year ahead.
Quarterback might be the largest question of all in Gotham, despite the presence of both Bryce Petty and Christian Hackenberg, along with veteran Josh McCown. Now, after spending his first season carrying a clipboard and running the scout team, Hackenberg believes he’s ready to compete for the starting job in 2017.
According to Brian Costello of the New York Post, Hackenberg had this to say about where he’s at mentally heading into 2017.
"“Without a doubt, I think there’s a different level of confidence, but I think that also goes back to Year 2 — more comfortable in the situation, more comfortable walking in the building, more comfortable with the guys in the locker room, in the huddle,” I think just that natural growth from, I wouldn’t even say confidence, but just the comfort standpoint of walking in there and doing things.”"
It certainly stands as likely Hackenberg will see the field some in 2017 even if he’s unable to wrestle the starting job from McCown, or other young returning signal caller, Bryce Petty, who ended last season on injured reserve. However, in a season that can be described as pivotal for everyone involved with the organization, New York is unlikely to put Hackenberg in unless he’s ready.
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Hackenberg’s development could have a time limit. If is unable to show improvement in 2017, the Jets may have to look for answers elsewhere. The 2018 NFL Draft appears to have high-level quarterback prospects that may interest the Jets if they don’t believe Hackenberg is the answer.