Jets' Josh McCown breaks left hand; unclear if injury is season-ending

As if it wasn’t bad enough that the New York Jets had their worst offensive performance in years against the Denver Broncos, one of the surprise teams of the 2017 season may have to finish its schedule without its starting quarterback.

Jets coach Todd Bowles told reporters after the team’s 23-0 loss that Josh McCown broke his left (non-throwing) hand, but it is unclear whether he is done for the year.

The news came after New York suffered its first shutout since Week 5 of the 2014 season, when it lost 31-0 in San Diego; on Sunday, the Jets totaled just 100 yards of offense, with six first downs and went 3-for-13 on third downs.

Earlier this week, Bowles had confirmed that the 38-year old McCown, who was enjoying the best season of his long and well-traveled career, would finish the year as the team’s starter.

But if McCown can’t play against the New Orleans Saints next week, Bowles said, Bryce Petty will start. Petty finished the game against Denver.

When McCown met with reporters, his hand bundled in a white bandage, he could not hold back his tears, saying his injury sucks and it’s been a great season.

“It’s been the best because of the guys. Not numbers,” McCown said. “It’s been the best because of the guys in the locker room.”

McCown, who has started games for six different teams and taken snaps with eight in his 16-year career, led the Jets to five wins in 12 games.