Dean Michaels

Veteran David Garrard has decided to retire due to lingering troubles with his knee, which continue to swell after practices.

Garrard said his decision to retire "might have been a little bit different" if he was guaranteed a roster spot.

A Jets spokesman told USA TODAY Sports that Garrard is still on the roster and hasn't been released.

If healthy, Garrard was expected to be a legitimate starting alternative given his history of always being good at protecting the football compared to turnover-machine Mark Sanchez.

The Jets had six quarterbacks on the roster, including Tim Tebow, when they picked Geno Smith in the second round of the NFL draft.

Greg McElroy and Matt Simms are hanging on to a roster spot.

Sanchez did make it clear he intends to win the starting job.

"This is something I've dreamed about all my life and I don't plan on letting it go," he said.

Sanchez knows he has to address the interception issues, something he's discussed with new offensive coordinator, Marty Mornhinweg.

 

Mark Sanchez Eyes Jets Starting QB Job with Garrard Retiring - NFL 2013