Jets' Vick On WFAN: 'In My Heart, In My Mind, I'm Still A Starter'
NEW YORK (WFAN) -- Geno Smith was very solid in the Jets' Week 1 victory over the Raiders.
He made a couple of bad mistakes early, throwing an interception and then losing a fumble, but he rebounded very nicely and showed maturation.
The second-year player completed 23 of 28 passes (82.1 percent) for 221 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed the ball 10 times for 38 yards.
Michael Vick
There was no need for the backup -- you may have heard of him -- to come in, though if Smith struggles in the coming weeks there will likely be calls for Michael Vick to start.
Vick joined WFAN host Mike Francesa on Tuesday afternoon, and the four-time Pro Bowler discussed how he's enjoying his role as a mentor to Smith.
But Vick, who at one time was one of the most exciting and effective players in the NFL, admits that he still has that fire to be a starter.
"I'm a competitor, so of course -- I'm being honest, I'm being frank with you -- it's hard not going out on the field and starting and taking that first snap," Vick said. "But the role I'm in, I've accepted it. And I was able to accept it when I signed on that dotted line to become a Jet. And I knew what my role was gonna be, so I was able to get comfortable in that role, and at the same time I've still got to stay ready and stay prepared."
The veteran signal-caller isn't your traditional backup. He figures to be a part of the offense -- he attempted a pass and nearly missed a touchdown on Sunday -- despite not being the starter, and his accomplishments speak for themselves.
If Smith struggles, head coach Rex Ryan will turn to the 34-year-old to save the offense.
And Vick will be ready if such a situation arises.
"When I signed on to come to New York, I knew what the situation was gonna be," Vick said. "...In my heart, and in my mind, I'm still a starter ... I'm comfortable in this role. Do I always want to be in this role? No, but if that's what it calls for I've gotta make the most of it."
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