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Hackenberg pick does nothing to address Jets' QB issues

Joe Robbins / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Problem not solved.

The New York Jets entered the 2016 NFL Draft with a glaring need at the most important position on the field. Ryan Fitzpatrick remains an unsigned free agent nearly two months into the offseason, and all indications have been that neither side is willing to budge in negotiations.

Whether it was during opening night, or at some point on day two, Gang Green was almost certain to be targeting a potential franchise signal-caller.

That time ended up coming toward the middle of the second round, where the Jets selected Penn State quarterback Christian Hackenberg.

From a long-term perspective, the logic is certainly there. Hackenberg has all the raw tools to succeed at the NFL level. If given enough time, it's entirely possible that he could put together a relatively strong career as a starter.

But the issue is that the Jets are still without a player they should feel comfortable handing the keys to in 2016.

In looking back at Hackenberg's career at Penn State, it's clear his struggles were about much more than the underwhelming supporting cast he had on the offensive side.

Every dart rifled through a small window was matched by a throw that couldn't be further off the mark. A leaky offensive line certainly did him no favors in protection, but the quarterback can't be completely absolved of responsibility when it comes to taking sacks.

Regardless of the physical gifts, such substantial issues with accuracy and a poise from within the pocket combine to make him far more of a project than an instant impact player.

So as the Jets now look to take the next step and get back to the playoffs, the organization will come away from the draft with no clarity as to whether they have a quarterback capable of leading the way.

The best possible chance of maximizing Hackenberg's potential would be to bring him along slowly. Behind a stop-gap quarterback like Fitzpatrick, for example.

Barring a move to re-sign the veteran, or an incredibly quick learning process for Hackenberg over the summer, it would appear as though Geno Smith is the one in line to start Week 1.

So despite an otherwise talented roster, to say the Jets are facing an uphill battle may be a grave understatement.

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