Jets, Texans complete Ryan Fitzpatrick trade

Dec 7, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) runs for a touchdown in the second quarter of their game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 7, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) runs for a touchdown in the second quarter of their game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports /
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The New York Jets have acquired quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick in a trade with the Houston Texans.


The New York Jets have continued to make strides this NFL off-season. Heading into 2015, the team looks to improve upon a disastrous campaign 4-12 last year. The team’s latest transaction? They completed a trade with the Houston Texans that sent away a conditional late round draft pick in exchange for veteran quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick.

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It is a move that appears to be a win-win scenario, although it can be argued the Jets got a steal here.

True, the Texans had almost no need for Fitzpatrick with the signing of Brian Hoyer and extension of Ryan Mallett. However, as we have seen from past seasons, health at the starter position is nothing to be taken for granted.

New York had a glaring need behind center. Yes, those of us that remember the final game of the 2014 regular season paid witness to Geno Smith’s masterpiece against the Miami Dolphins in a somewhat meaningless game. The second round pick out of West Virginia completed 20-25 passes for 358 yards, three touchdowns, zero interceptions, and a perfect passer rating of 158.3.

That is, however, in no way indicative of the man’s ability over the course of an entire season. Smith struggled for most of 2014, completing 59.7% of his passes for 2525 yards, 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. He also lost 8 fumbles and put up a passer rating of 77.5 and a QBR of 35.43.

Fitzpatrick gives the Jets something they have not had since Chad Pennington was the team’s signal caller from 2002-2007; consistency. Last season, the ten year veteran posted a 95.3 passer rating to the tune of 17 touchdowns, 8 interceptions, and a 63.1 completion percentage.

Fitzpatrick should fit in nicely with the acquisition of five time pro-bowl wide receiver Brandon Marshall, who will provide additional strength to the team’s passing attack next season.

On defense, the team looks like it will cater well to new head coach Todd Bowles. The Jets recently re-signed CB Darrelle Revis, and are looking like the favorites to bring in Antonio Cromartie as well.

New York is unquestionably heading in the right direction for next season. Thus far, they get a B for preseason rebuilding.

H/T Sports Illustrated

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