Marshall defends Fitzpatrick after ex-Jets LB Scott's criticism

New York Jets wide receiver Brandon Marshall technically isn't teammates with quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, but that didn't stop him from defending Fitzpatrick against what Marshall feels is an unfair attack.

Fitzpatrick remains a free agent after failing to come to terms with the Jets on a contract extension, something for which former Jets linebacker Bart Scott ripped Fitzpatrick.

"Fitz don't have a leg to stand on, man," Scott said on SiriusXM NFL Radio this week, strongly suggesting Fitzpatrick's lofty contract demands have prevented the 33-year-old from re-signing.

"You don't get to cash in twice, bro," Scott added.

Marshall doesn't buy that line of thinking.

"Peyton (Manning) cashed in three or four times. Tom Brady cashed in three or four times. I disagree with Bart on that. You cash in as many times as you can, and when you get the opportunity," Marshall responded, according to NJ.com's Darryl Slater.

Marshall also brushed aside the notion that Fitzpatrick is on the downside of his career, meaning the Jets would be wise to move on.

"The guy played well last year," Marshall said. "We're all downhill. As soon as we're born, we're downhill. I think everyone knows he played at a high level last year. That's not even a question."

It remains possible, and perhaps even likely, that the Jets and Fitzpatrick will eventually come to terms. But neither side seems to be in any rush and the longer the standoff continues, the less likely a reunion becomes.