Fitzpatrick not planning to retire amid standoff with Jets
The absence of a new deal with the New York Jets and a clear lack of options elsewhere hasn't been enough for Ryan Fitzpatrick to consider walking away from the NFL.
Making an appearance on SiruisXM NFL on Monday, the 33-year-old free agent explained that he intends to play a 12th season this fall.
"I'm playing," Fitzpatrick said, according to Rich Cimini of ESPN. "I'm playing football next year."
Coming off the most productive year of his pro career, where his 3,905 yards and 31 touchdowns helped lead the way to a 10-6 record, the logical assumption was that Fitzpatrick would be back in New York.
The lack of progress in negotiations nearly three months into the offseason has created some uncertainty in that regard, but Fitzpatrick still says he'd like to return.
Ryan Fitzpatrick, speaking to two reporters at Willie Colon golf event: "I would like to be back" with the Jets. #nyj
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) May 23, 2016
Fitzpatrick would almost certainly regain his starting role if the two sides are able to reach middle ground in the coming weeks.
Otherwise, barring the addition of another veteran prior to training camp, the lead role could come down to a competition between Geno Smith, Bryce Petty, and second-round pick Christian Hackenberg.