A Note to Jets Fans
While the media is altering the actual story to make it seem like you were cheering Chad's injury, it does not excuse the fact of what happened yesterday. This is not about whether or not you think Kellen Clemens should start or not. This is not even about if that opinion is yours or you are just simply following what you heard on the radio or television the last few weeks. (Just a question though. Who actually watched Kellen Clemens in preseason?)
However, that is another issue all together. This is about cheering the backup quarterback like he should have been starter while a player that has always given his all is limping off the field. At the time, who of you thought that he did not suffer a season ending injury? Personally, when I first saw the replay I thought Chad had tore his knee up, but even if it appeared mild to you (without seeing a replay I might add), it was still downright shameful. I am saddened I have to be lumped with fellow Jets fans that are being labeled as losers for this. I know not all cheered. I commend those who did not go along with the majority of the crowd. Those of you who did cheer you have obviously not understood what Chad has done for the Jets the last five years. Sure it has not equaled a ring, and believe me I want a championship just as much as any Jets fan. But this crossed the line beyond just wins and losses.
Chad Pennington plays with more heart and emotion than anyother football player in the game. He has had two reconstructive shoulder surgeries, a broken wrist, and has always had to overcome the stigma of not having enough talent. A player with a normal amount of determination and desire for the game would have retired long ago. And to Chad's credit, after the enormous insult from the crowd, he came back and led the team down the field for a touchdown. Then when he was finally shutdown for the day, he stuck around and cheered on Kellen Clemens. Chad could have gone back and iced up his ankle, but because of his tremendous character he stayed to support the team. This was all in a blowout no less. Chad is a winner, always has, always will be. He is my favorite player ever because of that. Yes, he does have significant shortcomings that might not ever allow him to generate a championship for the franchise, but that is definitely in no way because of lack of effort.
Again, you can have your opinion. However, that was far from the being the avenue in which to express it. So be ashamed Jets fans. We have reached a ugly low point in the football community. You kicked a great gamer when he was down after you cheered for him lustfully last year. I sat in the upperdeck at the Jets game with Houston last November when Chad looked like he went down with a severe injury. We all cheered loudly for him to get up, and as he did he gave several fist pumps to the crowd to thank us for our support. It was a great moment. A great moment between a great gamer and his fans. So allow me to be confused and ask, how did this 180 degree turn on Chad happen yesterday?
Pat Morgan
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A Note to Jets Fans
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