New York Jets coach Rex Ryan said Friday that there's no "clear-cut favorite" to start at quarterback next season, promising only that Mark Sanchez will see "competition from day one."
While old-as-the-sea David Garrard isn't exactly a head-turning foil for the embattled Sanchez, there's no way the Jets are done adding signal-callers.
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In fact, ESPNNewYork.com's Rich Cimini reported Sunday the Jets spent private time with prospect Geno Smith at West Virginia's pro day March 14 and "came away very impressed."
A group including Jets senior personnel executive Terry Bradway and offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg talked shop with Smith, who "certainly redeemed himself" after a lackluster interview at last month's combine, according to Cimini.
It's anyone's guess if Smith still will be available when the Jets pull the trigger on the ninth overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. The Arizona Cardinals (No. 7) might get frisky and select a passer, and the Buffalo Bills (No. 8) put Smith through a private workout Friday.
The Jets have countless roster needs, and rolling the dice on an average quarterback in the first round already has been attempted in Florham Park. Where this so-called "competition" will emerge from is hazy, but it's crystal clear Sanchez's leash is tighter than ever.
Follow Marc Sessler on Twitter @MarcSesslerNFL.