(SP) – The New York Jets are reportedly close to inking longtime New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms to a long-term deal after Simms was released by CBS today. Simms played 15 seasons with the Giants from 1979 to 1993 and won two Super Bowls, but has been working in broadcasting for the past 23 years.
“Phil Simms is a quarterback with a great track record who obviously knows how to win in New York,” said Jets general manager Mike Maccagnan. “We’re lucky that he fell into our laps today. He is the most accomplished quarterback we’ve had in a very long time.”
Jets officials say they do not have concerns about Simms’ age, even though he will be entering his age 63 season in 2017.
“Look, we play in the AFC East and we’ve been hearing for years about how Tom Brady’s age is going to catch up with him,” said head coach Todd Bowles. “Do you see him getting older? Not at all. So I think Phil can deliver that sort of play to us.”
Even if Simms is unable to play at the level he did 25 years ago, Jets sources say they still feel it will be significantly better than their other options in Josh McCown, Bryce Petty and 2016 2nd Round pick Christian Hackenberg.
“Hell, Josh McCown is only a couple years younger than Phil as it is,” said Maccagnan. “And I think most elderly people can throw more accurately than Hackenberg.”
Simms said he is excited to get back on the field.
“I think I’ve learned a lot about the game watching from the press box the last few decades,” he said. “I’ve learned a lot watching Tom Brady and now I’d love to get on the field and try to beat heem.”
