Jets QB Competition Still Open in the Eyes of Clemens

Mark Sanchez may have just signed one of the richest deals in Jets history, but that is not stopping QB Kellen Clemens from thinking that he’s in the running for the starting QB spot. The competition for being the opening day starter for the Jets is still open, and many have thought that Sanchez would get the job based on his deal.

Now though, Clemens, who has been the more polished QB so far in practices, says that he is still going to make it tough for the rookie to walk right in and start. “From what I have been told, and the only thing that matters in this competition, is that the best player will play,” Clemens said.

“They never said that the highest-paid player is going to play, but the best player is going to play. So, that’s how I am going to approach it. If they change their approach, then I will change my approach. But, as of now, that is where it is, and we are going to continue to move forward.”

Today was the last day of minicamp for the Jets, so the competition will sit for awhile till the team reports to camp on the last day of July, and from there it’s going to be interesting to see who takes the cake as the opening day starter for the Jets.

“Coach Ryan is clear about our goals here — we want to be playing in February in the championship,” Sanchez said. “He’ll put the best players on the field to do that, money or no money, it doesn’t matter. I don’t think any intensity is lost there with Coach Ryan. I think he is great about it, and the other coaches will help him decide (who will start).”