McCown in background, but still in the picture
Nine months after Josh McCown was flooded with emotions, he has found a peace reserved for selfless people who never lose sight of what matters most.
A part of McCown probably knew that his days as an NFL starting quarterback were over that Sunday afternoon in Denver last December when he broke his hand. He spoke from his heart moments after the Jets shutout loss to the Broncos, knowing that a two-decade long journey might be coming to an end.
“Thankfully,” he said at the time, fighting back tears, “They let me be part of this team.”
The Jets re-signed McCown for one more year this offseason with a belief that his true value would come in ways other than throwing touchdowns. A young quarterback was coming to town. McCown would be partteacher, part-insurance policy. He was perfect.
McCown has become an invaluable piece to the Jets’ rebuilding puzzle, a teammate, mentor, instructor and counselor to Sam Darnold and many others on the team. He’s the epitome of a person who gives much more than he ever takes.
The Jets, who would welcome McCown to their coaching staff in 2019 if he wanted to make that transition, value the 39-year-old’s football acumen and leadership traits. For the time being, he will be an integral player even if he never takes a single snap in 2018.
“It’s priceless to have somebody who’s been through many ups and downs in their career,” left tackle Kelvin Beachum said. “It’s that type of guy who’s been through so many things. He’s seen the league for what it is. He understands the situation that he’s been put in. All that being said, he’s found a way to thrive. He’s found a way to continue to hold guys accountable, hold himself accountable and continue to lead. Just in a different way.”
McCown only played 19 snaps in five drives this preseason before Darnold officially was named the Week 1 starter this week. Although McCown admitted Tuesday that he’s “personally bummed” not to be playing, he’s all-in to help the rookie fulfill his promise. It’s just who McCown is. He might be making $10 million this season, but his journey has never been about money. It’s always been about cultivating relationships and passing knowledge to others.
Sharing is caring… and McCown has cared a lot about so many people that have crossed paths with him for the past 16 years.
He’s seen everything, experiencing the spectrum of emotions in this wildly emotional game.
Larry Fitzgerald’s first regular-season snap: A 37-yard completion from McCown on a flea flicker. Emmitt Smith’s final carry: A handoff from McCown.
McCown is universally respected because of how he carries himself. He speaks with authenticity. He inspires young, old, offensive and defensive players. He inspires them because he lives his life in an honorable way.