Michael Vick and Geno Smith have yet to officially begin their quarterback competition on the practice field.
Joe Namath, who used to hold the lead New York Jets quarterback gig Vick and Smith will be battling for, has his own early favorite.
"If Mike’s healthy, I think he’s the better player at this point," Namath said Tuesday, via NJ.com. "Now, Geno’s got some talent, no doubt. But we’ve already seen Michael and what he can do. Having some knowledge of Marty’s offense, I think that’s an advantage, too, for Michael to make the transition.
"It’s a matter of how sound he is."
By most accounts this offseason, Smith seems to have to slight edge in terms of starting minicamp with the first-team snaps. That, however, will be meaningless by the time training camp rolls around, as Vick is expected to be given every chance to earn the Day 1 nod.
"Of course, the coaches are going to decide who’s out there," Namath said. "But I don’t know any football fan that’s been around for the last nine or 10 years that doesn’t think Michael could be outstanding and is probably the best player at this time."
Smith finished his rookie season strong but struggled for most of the campaign. If he starts at the beginning of his sophomore year, then great, but it wouldn't hurt him to take a step back and learn from one of the more talented players the league has seen over the past decade.
As recently as last year, Vick had a strong hold of the starting job in Philadelphia before an injury gave way for Nick Foles to step in and take over. So even if Vick starts this year, history could very well repeat itself, putting the keys back in Smith's hands regardless.
Vick has just one full season of games to his name in 11 years.
Follow Nick @NickStDenis
Follow AFC East Daily @AFCEastDaily
Smith finished his rookie season strong but struggled for most of the campaign. If he starts at the beginning of his sophomore year, then great, but it wouldn't hurt him to take a step back and learn from one of the more talented players the league has seen over the past decade.
As recently as last year, Vick had a strong hold of the starting job in Philadelphia before an injury gave way for Nick Foles to step in and take over. So even if Vick starts this year, history could very well repeat itself, putting the keys back in Smith's hands regardless.
Vick has just one full season of games to his name in 11 years.
Follow Nick @NickStDenis
Follow AFC East Daily @AFCEastDaily
