The New York Jets continue to make headlines about their highly criticized situation at quarterback. In a move that surprised no one, New York added to the QB-controversy by selecting Geno Smith with the 38th overall pick in the NFL draft.
Jets executives may have been persuaded among the chants of “Geno!” that echoed throughout Radio City Music Hall. Maybe it was the video game-type numbers he put up at West Virginia? Either way, there is yet another quarterback on the Jets roster.
Fans were not the only ones thrilled with the selection. Smith’s mother the most emotional people to hear Smith’s name called.
“My mother was in tears. She burst out into tears. She tried to make me cry, but I was luckily able to hold back.”
Smith’s mother was almost not there to hear her son’s name called on Friday, seeing as there were some concerns about Smith attending the second night of the draft after not being chosen in the first round. The newest Jet put those rumors to rest immediately.
“Talking to all my supporters and everyone who watched the draft from my high school and university, they all wanted me to remain here and walk across that stage to stand up and represent them all.”
Smith didn’t seem to thrilled to represent those individuals when his name was called, appearing almost emotionless walking across the stage to meet up with an awkward hug with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.
“I’m just that type of guy. It’s not that I don’t smile, I just kind of took it to heart, the way things happened yesterday. I won’t say that I’ll use it as extra fuel or motivation, because I am already motivated. It’s a blessing to be in this position, but I won’t forget all the things that happened. For now, I’m just happy to be a Jet.”
To say that Smith’s selection was surprising would be an understatement. In fact, Smith was the second signal caller taken behind Florida State’s E.J. Manuel. The selection, which Smith says, “tested his patience and character,” may have been worth the wait. Smith compared his wait to that of Aaron Rodgers’ wait in the 2005 draft.
“John Idzik called me, and I got to talk to coach Ryan,” said Smith. “Myself, coach Mornhinweg and Lee built a good rapport during this process and I’m going to go in and go to work immediately.”
Smith won’t have to go far, seeing as the New York Jets facility is nearby. However, he will have to compete for the starting job amongst a colorful cast of characters. But has there ever been a dull moment for New York Jet quarterbacks?
Smith will compete with current starter Mark Sanchez, last year’s free-agent acquisition Tim Tebow, journeyman David Garrard, and 2011 draft selection Greg McElroy in what team officials are calling an “open competition.” Smith mentioned that he has not had any contact with any of the signal callers currently on Gang Green’s roster.
Smith has been no stranger to the media during the entire draft process, and was asked about his ability to deal with the brutal New York media.
“That’s just the NFL and the position of QB. I’ve played this position all of my life and I understand that it comes with the territory, and I’m prepared for it.”
Smith has mentioned playing with a chip on his shoulder after falling out of the first round. Something that he has mentioned won’t be a big motivational tool. Smith will surely be a contender for the starting job moving forward, given the struggles by Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow. For now though, the media should just let Smith enjoy his moment for a day or so before immediately criticizing him.
