'In a recent ranking of the league's backup quarterbacks, Sporting News did not share Whaley's lofty view of Manuel. The publication ranked him No. 18 among No. 2 quarterbacks, with author Bill Bender writing "Tyrod Taylor is the established starter, and the battle for the backup spot between EJ Manuel and Cardale Jones will be interesting. Jones plays with a lot of confidence and has a strong arm. At some point, Rex Ryan might give Jones a chance if he takes advantage. It’s on Manuel to step up his game.";