Five potential destinations for Matt Stafford in 2016

Jan 4, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) is hit by Dallas Cowboys defensive end Demarcus Lawrence (90) causing a fumble late in the fourth quarter in the NFC Wild Card Playoff Game at AT&T Stadium. Dallas defeated Detroit 24-20. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

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Oct 25, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) runs with the ball against the New England Patriots during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports /

4. New York Jets

The New York Jets need a quarterback now. Ryan Fitzpatrick and Geno Smith have both struggled with injury, relying now on unproven rookie Bryce Petty to provide a backup in case of further catastrophe.

Even if Fitzpatrick and Smith were healthy, the Jets do not have a quarterback who can leverage the talents of some of their most reliable offensive weapons. Receivers Brandon Marshall, Jeremy Kerley, and Eric Decker would be even bigger threats on the field with a quarterback of Stafford’s stature at the helm.

The Jets have made some positive changes in recent years, and have become better known for football than the media circus surrounding the organization during the Rex Ryan years. Head coach Todd Bowles appears to be a better fit for the organization and has led the team to four victories at the halfway point, as many as they had during the entire 2014 season.

With a defense that features some of the best cornerbacks in the league and is ranked first in terms of rushing yards allowed, the Jets could be serious playoff contenders with a more reliable quarterback in the pocket.

Fitzpatrick is scheduled to start in Week 9 with a torn ligament in his thumb, but Stafford is better than a healthy Fitzpatrick. Geno Smith could be a reliable backup if he manages to stay healthy and out of trouble, but as a starter, he has not demonstrated the consistency and leadership necessary to take his team to the next level.

Next: 3. San Francisco 49ers

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