FLORHAM PARK -- Ryan Fitzpatrick, after 10 seasons with five other franchises, finally has a chance to get an NFL team to the playoffs. He's exceeded every expectation this season as the Jets' quarterback.

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But as a potential free agent this offseason, does he want to be back at One Jets Drive in 2016?

Last week, Fitzpatrick told NJ Advance Media, "I love it here," but was coy on the subject of returning. After practice Tuesday, he came right out with it.

"Yeah, I'd love to be back," Fitzpatrick said.

At this point, the Jets would be crazy not to want him, too.

Fitzpatrick has completed 60 percent of his passes, thrown for 25 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, and has a passer rating of 89.8. His Total QBR is 68.2, which ranks seventh among qualified starters.

Fitzpatrick has also been on fire the last three games, all Jets victories. And in the red zone, he has 19 touchdown passes and zero interceptions.

Also: The Jets are 8-5 and smack-dab in the thick of the AFC playoff chase. As things now stand, they'd be the No. 6 seed.

The feeling is mutual from head coach Todd Bowles. He recently told the New York Daily News he'd like to have Fitzpatrick back.

Fitzpatrick is making $3.25 million this season on a deal he signed with the Texans, who traded him to the Jets in March.

"He's playing well," Bowles said Tuesday. "Honestly, you deal with all the things after the season. You like the person, you like the player."

Dom Cosentino may be reached at dcosentino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @domcosentino. Find NJ.com Jets on Facebook.