Hoyer may be QB option for Gang

WHILE THE Ryan Fitzpatrick contract standoff lingers, a potential Jets’ backup plan at quarterback just became easier to execute.

The Texans have released QB Brian Hoyer, NFL.com reported Sunday. Hoyer, who started nine games for Houston last season, became expendable when the Texans signed Brock Osweiler.

It still seems likely that the Jets will be able to re-sign Fitzpatrick, if for no other reason than the veteran QB doesn’t appear to have another option where he would be the unquestioned starter. But still, Hoyer could be one of the Jets’ backup plans just in case.

Before Sunday, the Jets would have had to trade for Hoyer if they wanted him. Now, he’s a free agent.

At the very least, it should give Gang Green even more leverage over Fitzpatrick in their contract negotiations.

Back at the league meetings, head coach Todd Bowles said the Jets had “have plans B, C and D in place as well” at quarterback. At the time, Robert Griffin III was still on the open market, but he has since signed with Cleveland.

Bowles has acknowledged that there is a deadline to get something done with Fitzpatrick, but hasn’t revealed what that deadline is.

Hoyer may represent an alternative at quarterback, but he isn’t an exciting option. However, in limited action last year he did put up decent numbers, posting a 5-4 record along with a 91.4 quarterback rating. He suffered two concussions last year.

Before last season, Hoyer spent two years in Cleveland, a season in Arizona and three years backing up Tom Brady in New England. He is 15-11 in 26 career starts and has a career 82.2 quarterback rating.

It’s worth remembering, however, that Fitzpatrick himself was seen as a bland journeyman just a year ago.