The Jets have been roundly criticized for apparently trying to low-ball free agent quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick in negotiations this offseason.
But the New York Post reported Friday that the Jets are offering the veteran quarterback a three-year, $36 million deal, with $12 million guaranteed the first year. That is far more than the $6 million to $8 million mentioned previously. And the Post reports that offer has been on the table for four months.
The offer is still less than the $15 million Fitzpatrick is reportedly seeking, but is much more in line with his market value. The $12 million per year figure would rank 23rd in the NFL among quarterbacks, between Nick Foles ($12.25 million) and Robert Griffin III ($7.62 million).
The 33-year-old Fitzpatrick made only $3.25 million last season, when he burst on the scene in his first year in the Big Apple with career highs in touchdown passes (31) and passing yards (3,905). Those 31 TDs are a Jets record.
The Jets have said they want Fitzpatrick back, but are prepared to go with Geno Smith as the starter. Some of Fitzpatrick's teammates, including receivers Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker, have made it clear they want him back. Both receivers were no-shows at the team's voluntary practices this week.
But the New York Post reported Friday that the Jets are offering the veteran quarterback a three-year, $36 million deal, with $12 million guaranteed the first year. That is far more than the $6 million to $8 million mentioned previously. And the Post reports that offer has been on the table for four months.
The offer is still less than the $15 million Fitzpatrick is reportedly seeking, but is much more in line with his market value. The $12 million per year figure would rank 23rd in the NFL among quarterbacks, between Nick Foles ($12.25 million) and Robert Griffin III ($7.62 million).
The 33-year-old Fitzpatrick made only $3.25 million last season, when he burst on the scene in his first year in the Big Apple with career highs in touchdown passes (31) and passing yards (3,905). Those 31 TDs are a Jets record.
The Jets have said they want Fitzpatrick back, but are prepared to go with Geno Smith as the starter. Some of Fitzpatrick's teammates, including receivers Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker, have made it clear they want him back. Both receivers were no-shows at the team's voluntary practices this week.
