After throwing for 3,905 yards with 31 touchdowns and 15 interceptions last season, it seemed to be a foregone conclusion that Ryan Fitzpatrick would re-sign with the New York Jets this offseason. But Ian Rapoport of NFL Network has reported the veteran signal caller will hit the open market, due in part to the Jets and Fitzpatrick remaining “far apart” in contract talks.
With the ability to officially talk with other teams, and sign elsewhere come Wednesday, here are five teams that could sign Fitzpatrick.
5. Denver Broncos
Depending on what happens with Brock Osweiler, and the possibility he signs elsewhere on the heels of Peyton Manning’s retirement, the Broncos could quickly turn their attention to Fitzpatrick.
4. Cleveland Browns
The Browns are likely to draft a quarterback early in April’s draft. But Fitzpatrick could serve as a Week 1 starter next season, or a veteran mentor in a backup role.
3. Los Angeles Rams
The Rams seem set to enter next season with Case Keenum and Nick Foles as their top two quarterbacks. That is obviously not a great situation, so Fitzpatrick would be a clear upgrade and a likely starter.
2. Houston Texans
Fitzpatrick spent the 2014 season with the Texans, and they are in the market for a quarterback this offseason. At the very least, Fitzpatrick fits as a veteran backup to a draft pick that may start right away in Houston.
1. New York Jets
The rumor mill has Fitzpatrick possibly leaving New York, but I’m not buying it. The Jets simply don’t have many other options clearly at their disposal, at least in terms of a starting quarterback for next season, so keeping the 33-year old around for another year or two makes sense.