Jets players have reported to camp. Ryan Fitzpatrick wasn't among that group. Rinse and repeat.
But wait! Could we have a sudden breakthrough on the Ryan Fitzpatrick stalemate?
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday on NFL Network's Inside Training Camp Live there's a feeling that the Jets will make one last run at Fitzpatrick, trying to sign him before practice starts Thursday.
Talks are heating up between the two sides as they negotiate back-and-forth to try and get a deal done, Rapoport reported later Wednesday afternoon.
We've covered how Fitzpatrick's absence will prompt the ascension of Geno Smith, and an added reliance on rookie Christian Hackenberg (and the overlooked Bryce Petty) as backups. The future is uncertain without Fitzpatrick under center, compared to a 10-win campaign that ended with the Jets tantalizingly close to the playoffs and Fitzpatrick among the greatest Jets passers ever.
It's a running tale that has grown tired, has struck fear in the heart of one Jets receiver and has dominated offseason conversation surrounding the team. Never mind that New York just signed its first-round pick on Wednesday; any hope to remedy the situation at signal-caller takes precedence.
While coach Todd Bowles assures media members that he has full confidence in Smith, actions behind the scenes signal otherwise. Might FitzMagic return to Florham Park, New Jersey, and later, Metlife Stadium? We must wait and see.
