Rex Ryan quashes Geno Smith starting rumours

Geno Smith will remain the starting quarterback for the New York Jets, according to head coach Rex Ryan.

The rookie's performances in recent weeks have not been near to a level he showed in the early part of the campaign, with his worst to date coming in Sunday's thrashing by the Baltimore Ravens.

Rumours have begun to circulate that Smith will lose his place in the team but Ryan has moved quickly to deny that would happen.

Ryan told NFL.com: "Stats don't paint the whole picture and it shouldn't all be on him.

"Things like protection or others dropping catches or not running precise routes all have an impact on Geno Smith's performance and stats.

"I'm concerned about all of our play, not just Geno. Right now, I would feel that he gives us the best chance to win football matches."

The Jets have a 5-6 record in the AFC East and still maintain strong playoff hopes.