The Jets have struggled to find a consistent performer at quarterback for more than a decade, and Ryan Fitzpatrick has looked more like a backup throughout most of his 10-year career. But the two have found something together this season and Jets coach Todd Bowles would like to see Fitzpatrick remain in New York.
“We got to work (it out) after the season,” Bowles said of the impending free agent, via the New York Daily News. "You can see it in his play. You can see it in his demeanor, his professionalism. Every day, the way he approaches his job. So, he's somebody you definitely want around.”
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Fitzpatrick, who heads into Sunday's clash against the Titans with a 60.1 completion percentage, 2,866 yards, 22 touchdowns and an 88.1 quarterback rating this season, is used to being a team's second option. But he's put that behind him and is just focused on winning games.
“That’s been my whole career: I’ve been the afterthought,” Fitzpatrick said. “I’ve gotten used to it. It’s kind of what everybody thinks. I like playing the role of the underdog. That’s fine with me. I just want to go out there and win. That’s it.
“I love playing for Coach Bowles,” he said. “I love being on this team.”
The bearded quarterback signed a a two-year, $7.5 million deal with the Texans two years ago before getting traded to the Jets in March. Fitzpatrick will become a free agent this offseason if an extension is not reached before then.