The Jets lost quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to torn ligaments in his non-throwing hand in Sunday's 34-20 loss against the Raiders, but needed him to come back out for a few plays after Fitzpatrick's backup, Geno Smith, also got hurt after sustaining blows to his shoulder and abdomen.
The major takeaway from head coach Todd Bowles?
"We've got to learn how to slide," he said, via The New York Post.
Though Smith eventually came back into the game, both quarterbacks will hit the MRI room on Monday and third-stringer, rookie Bryce Petty is essentially on a redshirt year. This makes the Jets one of the more interesting teams as the trade deadline approaches.
Ryan Mallett is available and played for the Texans while Mike Maccagnan was a personnel executive there. Matt Flynn, also a free agent, spent some time on the Jets' roster this summer as well. NFL Media's Albert Breer, however, threw water on the Mallett idea Sunday night, reporting that Mallett would not be an option if the Jets made a move.
Josh Johnson (Bills) might also make some sense if he becomes available, as he has a working knowledge of the playbook. Same goes for Tarvaris Jackson (Seahawks) or anyone familiar with offensive coordinator Chan Gailey's quick-strike offense.
The Jets are in an interesting position here. They are a young, defense-first team winning without incredible quarterback play. The right move, should Fitzpatrick and Smith not be able to go, could keep them in the playoff hunt.
The wrong move, which might also include sticking with Smith, could sink a promising campaign faster than expected.
