The New York Jets are once again hoping that drafting a quarterback early in the first round will save them from years of disappointment, but Mark Schlereth is among those who are extremely skeptical of the approach. The former Pro Bowler voiced that opinion last week, and apparently he offended some Jets fans. For that, Schlereth is sorry.
During an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” on Friday, Schlereth ridiculed the Jets and their fans for repeatedly thinking hyped rookie quarterbacks are going to rescue them.
“We act as though every guy who plays quarterback is going to come and fix our franchise,” Schlereth said. “If it didn’t work with Sam Darnold, why do you think you can put another quarterback into that same situation and have it work this time?”
Schlereth said he has nothing against BYU’s Zach Wilson, whom many assume will be New York’s pick at No. 2. His point seemed to be that he doesn’t understand why fans continue to buy into the approach when players like Darnold and Mark Sanchez have come and gone.
After listening to Jets fans rip him on Twitter, Schlereth decided to make an “apology” video. He delivered the “apology” while sporting his old game-worn Denver Broncos helmet and showing off his three Super Bowl rings. The path to one of those Super Bowl wins included a playoff victory against the New York Jets. Schlereth wore that ring on his middle finger.
Jets fans have every right to be excited about Wilson. We saw a preview of his ability when he made this ridiculous throw at his Pro Day, but Schlereth is right that it is about building a complete team, not just drafting a QB. The former is a lot more difficult than the latter.
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