Then why have they not moved on already?

I personally think that Fitz has all the leverage here.

Jets now have 9M in cap space, they could easily clear up 3M for the 1yr-12M that Fitz has been reported to be willing to take. The only reason not pay him is out of stubbornness, what do you care if they pay him 8M or 12M dollar? If he gives you the best chance to win would be a bonehead move not to sign him.

2014 15games played 115 targets 74 catches 962 yards

If my option was Geno Smith, they yes clearly

Fitz would take a 1year - 12M contract. They now have 9M cap room and could easily maneuver the rest. If you thinks he makes your team better (which Jets obviously do - otherwise they would have moved on by now) it is a no brainer to sign this guy.

The “money he’s asking for” is below average for a starting QB— if you throw out the guys still on rookie deals there are like 2 potential starting QB making less than 12M per year. If you want him to be the starter, you have to pay him. If the Jets thought that Fitz sucked or Geno was an option, they would already…

There were not many teams with an open starting QB spot to begin with — basically the Broncos, who were cheap and did not pay Osweiler and did not want to pay Fitz, and the Browns, who decided to go with RGIII.