Jets coach Todd Bowles is just fine rolling with Geno Smith.
This became a possibility after starter Ryan Fitzpatrick injured his non-throwing hand against the Raiders and underwent surgery on Friday. He did not practice on Monday, opting to rest the torn ligament for another day.
If he suffers a setback, though, all of Fitzpatrick's responsibilities -- and more -- would fall on the shoulders of Smith this weekend against the Houston Texans.
"I'm fine with (Smith) starting," Bowles said, via The New York Post. "He's made great progress. He's learned a lot under Ryan. He threw the ball well in Oakland for the most part, so if he has to play we'll just keep on moving."
That might be difficult. As much as the difference between Smith and Fitzpatrick was considered negligible to start the season, Fitzpatrick might be playing the best football of his NFL career. Buoyed by an excellent running game, a punishing defense and a budding tandem of Eric Decker and Brandon Marshall, Fitzpatrick has taken the starting opportunity and ran with it. His prior connection with offensive coordinator Chan Gailey certainly provided the initial comfort level that helped him place so much distance between himself and Smith to start the season.
But these are different times for Smith, who no longer has a general manager and head coach tied to his heels. If Smith gets an opportunity, it will be on his shoulders and his terms to create a new chance for himself in the NFL.
