After two seasons as a backup to Geno Smith, Matt Simms' time with the New York Jets is over. He was released Thursday by the team.

It became obvious in recent weeks that Simms' days were numbered. The Jets added two quarterbacks, drafting Bryce Petty in the fourth round and signing Jake Heaps as an undrafted free agent. Suddenly, there were five on the depth chart (don't forget about Ryan Fitzpatrick), and Todd Bowles indicated his plan is take only four to training camp.

Someone had to go.

Simms, looking for a better opportunity, reluctantly asked the Jets to cut him loose, affording him the chance to look for another team before next month's minicamps. There could be some teams already interested, perhaps in the AFC East. First, he’s subject to waivers.

The Buffalo Bills come to mind because of Rex Ryan's familiarity with Simms. His former position coach, David Lee, is on Ryan's staff in the same capacity. The Bills, though, already have three veterans -- Matt Cassel, EJ Manuel and Tyrod Taylor. What about the New England Patriots? Bill Belichick has a connection to the Simms' family (see: Phil, New York Giants legend), and his depth chart could be in flux, depending on the outcome of the Tom Brady situation. The Patriots' backups are Jimmy Garoppolo and Garrett Gilbert.

Simms' New Jersey-based agent, Art Weiss, couldn't be reached for comment.

Simms, 26, appeared in four games in two seasons after making the Jets as an undrafted free agent. Playing exclusively as a backup, he completed 19 of 39 passes for 195 yards, with one touchdown and one interception. He was the No. 2 quarterback in 2013, backing up Smith after Mark Sanchez suffered a season-ending injury in the preseason.