Geno Smith isn't the least bit impressed with the talent evaluators who aren't the least bit impressed with him.
Learning that a recent ESPN survey rated the New York Jets passer as the league's worst quarterback, Smith on Saturday promised that he wouldn't man that spot for long.
"The thing about it is, you have to climb up," Smith told ESPN.com's Rich Cimini. "If I'm No. 32, by this time next year or the year after, I expect to be in the top five."
When ESPN.com's Mike Sando compiled his fascinating signal-caller study, a collection of 26 coaches and personnel executives showed little faith in Smith after a season that saw the rookie commit 25 turnovers over 16 starts.
"My first reaction was, 'You know, man, I've got to prove them wrong,'" Smith said. "In the end, none of that matters. My key job is to make sure this team is improving and I'm doing everything I can for the betterment of this team."
Coach Rex Ryan shrugged off the doubters, telling reporters Saturday: "Let's take that survey after the season and see where our quarterback ranks."
Smith's struggles were evident last autumn, but we also saw flashes from a young passer who wasn't afraid to drive the ball downfield. Part of the problem was a thin roster that surrounded Smith with arguably the worst talent in the AFC. An offseason that saw New York add running back Chris Johnson, wideout Eric Decker and rookie tight end Jace Amaro should help.
If it doesn't, look for Michael Vick to take the reins before Halloween.
The latest "Around The League Podcast" offers up team-by-team training camp previews of the NFC East and NFC West.