New York Jets Brandon Marshall on Ryan Fitzpatrick: “He’s impressive”
In 2015, Brandon Marshall and Ryan Fitzpatrick came to the New York Jets from other teams. They met for the 1st time. Was it love at first sight? Did sparks fly?
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Brandon Marshall’s first impression of QB Ryan Fitzpatrick wasn’t good – AFC East- ESPN Jets receiver Brandon Marshall said he questioned the ability of Ryan Fitzpatrick after the veteran quarterback looked far from sharp last offseason. |
| Source: www.espn.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/81203/brandon-marshalls-first-impression-of-jets-qb-ryan-fitzpatrick-terrible | |
“When he first got here last year, he was terrible, he really was. I’d run a 5-yard hitch route and he’d throw it in the dirt. We were like, ‘What the heck? That’s how everybody felt.”
Brandon Marshall was not impressed with how Ryan Fitzpatrick threw the football when they practiced together in the 2015 offseason. Marshall had been traded to the Jets from the Chicago Bears in 2015 after playing in Soldier Field for 3 years. He was going to be the go-to receiver in offensive coordinator Chan Gailey’s system and Eric Decker’s complement after Decker failed to be the primary receiver in 2014. Meanwhile, Ryan Fitzpatrick was traded by the Houston Texans after playing for them for 1 year and came to Gang Green for a late round draft pick. After teammate Enemkpali punched quarterback Geno Smith and gave him a broken jaw, Ryan was named the Week 1 starter for the Jets in 2015.
“I was scared. It was over, season’s over. We’re done.”
Brandon had no confidence in a journeyman QB who was now with his 6th team in 11 years. However, after reuniting with Gailey who was his head coach with the Buffalo Bills from 2010 to 2012, Fitzpatrick flourished in his spread offense.
3,905 yards.
31 touchdowns (Most passing touchdowns in a single season: a NYJ franchise record.)
Ryan also helped Marshall have a breakout year.
1,502 yards.
14 TDs (career high and led the NFL).
Both of these players helped the Jets to a 10-6 record in a year when they were expected to be under .500. After developing a strong chemistry with each other, Brandon has changed his opinion of his QB.
“I actually think he’s better this year. He’s throwing the ball with more velocity, he’s throwing the ball deeper. He’s comfortable back there. He’s really good right now. He’s impressive.”
