New York Jets coach Todd Bowles has named 15-year-veteran Josh McCown the team’s starting quarterback heading into the 2017 regular season.

When McCown takes the field for the September 10th opener vs. the Bills he will become the fourth Week 1 starter in New York since 2012. That gives the Jets one of the highest turnovers ratios in the league, with Mark Sanchez, Geno Smith and Ryan Fitzpatrick all trying their hand at the position over the past five seasons. Judging by his streak of 20 losses over the past 22 games, it is unlikely that McCown will generate the type of success that brings him back to lead the team into 2018, with many believing he was simply brought on board to mentor second-year man Christian Hackenberg.

“He gives us the best chance to win right now,” coach Todd Bowles said about his decision to go with McCown, on Monday, August 28. “He has the best grasp of the offense right now. The other two got significantly better, but he still has the best grasp of the offense right now. From his talent, he’s proven it this spring and this summer.”

Interestingly enough McCown only played one series this preseason. While the drive proved to be a successful one that resulted in a touchdown, the limited play contradicted Bowles’ assertion that he was in a 3-way competition for the job with Hackenberg and Bryce Petty. Hackenberg carried the bulk of the work this offseason, but he never proved that he could remain consistent at the helm.

VIA