Speculation that New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez could be supplanted as the starter by rookie Geno Smith is quickly dying. Jets coach Rex Ryan is the latest to imply the rookie isn't ready to take the reins, leading to the probability that Sanchez will start Week 1 and likely remain the starter through the season.
Ryan has been vague about who'd get the starting nod for Week 1, citing his desire to let the competition play out in camp. Ryan, who's on the coaching hot seat, gave his most telling indicator though on Wednesday when he described Smith's three-interception day at practice as "brutal."
"That was Geno's worst day, obviously," Ryan told ESPN. "The ankle is part of it. That's way too many picks. He didn't look comfortable today. It was a bad day. We've seen guys have bad days, but this was a really bad day."
Ryan is describing one day, but he's not the first to insinuate Smith isn't ready to start under center.
Jets offensive lineman Nick Mangold told the New York Post earlier in June that Smith didn't look ready to start. He also implied the locker room wants Sanchez to start.
"I haven't walked around with a pen and paper and taken a poll, but from the feeling I get, the locker room wants to win," Mangold said. "Whoever gives us the best chance to do that, we want out there - and at this point, Mark gives us that best chance."
Smith is a second-round pick. It's not to say Smith could never dethrone Sanchez, but it appears unlikely to happen this year. All accounts indicate Smith needs more time to develop as an NFL quarterback.
New York fans are disgruntled with Sanchez and rightfully so - the 26-year-old has had two terrible seasons, highlighted by 52 turnovers. The Jets' offense was anemic behind Sanchez, who tossed just 13 touchdowns last season.
There's hope with Smith but, for better or worse, Jets fans appear stuck with Sanchez for the season.
