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Owner Woody Johnson to QB Ryan Fitzpatrick: ‘Come back to the Jets’

New York Jets owner Woody Johnson did not mince words when asked about quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick and the ongoing negotiation to sign him to a long term deal.
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New York Jets owner Woody Johnson did not mince words when asked about quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick and the ongoing negotiation to sign him to a long-term deal, according to the Associated Press

While acknowledging that contract negotiations take time, Johnson offered a simple message to the player he wants to be his franchise quarterback.

“Come back to the Jets,” Johnson said.

Going into the off-season, the Jets were thought to be ready to re-sign Fitzpatrick, but the team and the quarterback have been far off on a dollar figure. 

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“He’s a priority....I’ve been in this 17 years now, so I am not disappointed in a tactical sense,” Johnson said.

“In football, you’ve got to be able to deal with it. The reality is the NFL reality, and you’ve got to make the decisions. Some are pleasant, some not.“

Fitzpatrick, 33, is coming off the best season of his 11-year career. He started all 16 games in 2015, throwing for 3,905 yards, 31 touchdowns and 15 interceptions.

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The Jets (10–6) just missed the playoffs, finishing second in the AFC East.