~ ~ Jets Free Agency : the Big Board ~ ~

[kelly]

 

Eric AllenSr. Reporter/Director, Internet Programming

Before March Madness, Pro Scouts Rank Each UFA, RFA & Projected Cap Cuts by Position

>  http://www.newyorkjets.com/news/article-6/Jets-Free-Agency-The-Big-Board/b4436b22-960b-4c3d-89ac-b14b3d5cf8d2

[kelly]

NFL free agency kicks off this week. Here's a quick primer on what that means for the Jets.

The priorities

As of Monday morning, the Jets have a little less than $7 million in salary-cap space to spend. Needless to say, that's ... not much. The Jets also still have to work out a new contract for quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick. Defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson has been franchised, but the Jets could try to trade him. Nose tackle Damon Harrison, running backs Chris Ivory and Bilal Powell, and inside linebacker Demario Davis are also among their 23 in-house free agents. Harrison is going to have suitors. Ivory appears to be ready to sign somewhere else. Powell could be gone, too. Davis won't be back.

Where that money will come from

The Jets are going to have to make some cuts. Releasing wide receiver Jeremy Kerley ($1.3 million in cap savings), tight end Jeff Cumberland ($1.9 million), and right tackle Breno Giacomini ($4.375 million) could free up another $8 million. Kicker Nick Folk ($2.156 million) is another potential cut candidate. And restructuring the contracts of left tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson ($14.1 million cap charge), center Nick Mangold ($8.6 million), or wideout Brandon Marshall ($9.5 million) could free up even more cap room.

Will Jets be players?

That lack of cap room, combined with the need to lock down Fitzpatrick, means the Jets are not in position to be as aggressive in free agency as they were last year, when they had a boatload of cap space and cash to spend. There will be a lot of big names and a lot of big money being thrown around this week. But when it comes to signing free agents from other teams. don't look for the Jets to be the ones writing any of the bigger checks.

MORE: 9 notable NFL cuts who could fit Jets

Is that a bad thing?

No, not at all. The Jets needed to quick infusion of talent last year to better themselves after a 4-12 season. They did that. They still have lots of positions (edge rusher, offensive line, tight end, inside linebacker, quarterback, cornerback, maybe running back) in need of an upgrade, and they need to get younger in certain spots (edge rusher, offensive line), but the goal is to build for the long-haul through the draft and to develop some of the younger talent already on the roster. Free agency is for making upgrades here and there without breaking the bank.

Will the Jets do anything?

In all likelihood, most outside signings the Jets make will come on the secondary market, perhaps even next week. But they might make a run at a player or two this week.

The timetable

The league's (wink) legal tampering period begins Monday at noon. That's when teams may "begin" to negotiate with agents for players from other teams whose 2015 contracts are about to expire. You'll note those quotation marks and my sarcastic (wink). That's because a lot of tampering between teams and agents really began two weeks ago at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. Everyone will just be free to talk about it openly later Monday. After that, starting Wednesday at 4 p.m., all 2015 contracts expire, the 2016 league year begins, and free agents can begin to sign deals with other teams. Giddy up.

>       http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2016/03/nfl_free_agency_2016_what_to_expect_for_jets.html#incart_river_index

[kelly]

The Jets need a pass rusher, that’s obvious. While the team has the unproven Lorenzo Mauldin set to take on a starting role next year, they need someone else on the other side.

That someone may be coming in free agency.

According to source with knowledge of the situation, the Jets plan on targeting a pass rusher once the market opens March 9th. The source asked not to be identified because he is not authorized to speak on behalf of the Jets.Now, the Jets intent on targeting pass rushers in free agency shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, but who exactly the team is going to be targeting is the real question.

With just $6 million in cap space, the Jets simply don’t have the financial ability to go after some of the top names set to be available. A player like linebacker Bruce Irvin would be a perfect fit, but he’s reportedly going to command a near $10 million annual salary… something well out of the Jets price range.As a result, New York is going to be looking for those bargain buys that could potentially be a low-risk, high-reward scenario. That could mean a player like the Kansas City ChiefsTamba Hali, or theGreen Bay Packers Nick Perry.

Hali isn’t the player he once was, thus driving down his price tag. Perry, meanwhile, has all the athletic ability and is still young (25), but has yet to perform at the NFL level.Either way, if New York is able to snag a pass rusher on the open market, as the team intends on attempting, it could open up their options come the NFL Draft.Instead of worrying about a pass rusher with one of their first two picks, the Jets could potentially go with an offensive lineman or running back, two other holes on the team’s roster.

So, a pass rusher in free agency? It wouldn’t be the worst move the Jets could make.

>        http://jetswire.usatoday.com/2016/03/07/source-jets-will-target-a-pass-rusher-in-free-agency/

[Warfish]

QB is our biggest need.  No Fitz, FA market is weak, we're stuck with Geno/Petty, making 2016 all but irrelevant as a competitive year.

The O needs O-Line help, and seriously needs an upgrade at Durable Productive RB.  TE would be ok, but not vital.

The D needs LB's.  More than one.  D-Line just need managed, and D-backfield needs what we have to step-up.

Kicker is fine.  Punter could use an upgrade.

Specials could use some coverage-guy help, but low-priority.

We average talented, but getting old in key spots (O-Line, RB (old in durability if not actual age).

No rebuild needed, just tweaks.  But QB worries the hell out of me now.  Without stabillity and productivity there, none of it really matters.

[kelly]

Rich CiminiESPN Staff Writer 

Jets QB Ryan Fitzpatrick doesn't have a deal with the Jets, meaning he's free to talk to other teams at noon. He can test his value on the open market and bring back his best offer to the Jets. Meanwhile, RB Bilal Powell also will hit the market, a source said

 

> http://espn.go.com/nfl/team/_/name/nyj/new-york-jets

[kelly]

just an fyi..

 

Seven factors that affect where free agents sign

> http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/14923607/seven-factors-affect-where-nfl-free-agents-sign-money-location-familiarity-matter

[Bugg]

No Prince Amukasucka. If he didn't have a cool name he wouldn't be a nickel back.  

 

Fitz is back, this is all negotiation. 

[kelly]

The NFL's free agency signing period officially begins at 4 p.m. Wednesday, after two-plus days of a legal tampering/negotiating period. 

So what's the latest with the Jets  ? 

They don't have a lot of cap room, but they do have several key in-house free agents they want to retain: quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, nose tackle Damon Harrison, and running back Bilal Powell. 

Running back Chris Ivory, to no surprise, is already gone. He will sign with the Jaguars. That obviously makes retaining Powell a priority. But there's also the not-so-small matter of Fitzpatrick perhaps signing elsewhere. 

Check out the video up top for some Jets-related thoughts on the official opening day of free agency. 

>      http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2016/03/watch_what_are_jets_priorities_as_free_agency_sign.html#incart_river_index

[kelly]

Plenty of free agent help, especially on defense, still available

Tuesday brought some news, lots of rumors and a handful of players re-signing with their own teams before becoming eligible to hit the free agent market when it opens Wednesday.

It also brought Malik Jackson a lot of money. The former Broncos defensive tackle agreed to terms with the Jaguars on a contract worth $90 million, $42 million guaranteed. After teams used their franchise tags last week, Jackson was the top potential free agent left.Of the top 13 players on PFT’s Hot 100 Free Agent list, only No. 6 Olivier Vernon(transition tag, Dolphins) and No. 12 Damon Harrison don’t have some level of certainty as to where they’ll be playing next year. Vernon might end up with the Dolphins, but their signing of Mario Williams Tuesday indicates they may be willing to move on.

There’s still drama involved with the 4 p.m. ET Wednesday start of free agency, though, because lots of teams have money to spend. While offensive linemen Alex Mack, Andre Smith and Mitchell Schwartz are still in line for big contracts, more defensive players figure to find homes quickly. Sean Smith and Janoris Jenkins are the top available cornerbacks, while behind Harrison the top defensive linemen are Jaye Howard, Ian Williams, Robert Ayers and Nick Fairley.Tuesday was a good day for pass rushers — Bruce Irvin, Williams, Jason Pierre-Paul and Charles Johnson landed big-money deals — and teams are still looking for help in that area. On the offensive side, running back Chris Ivory agreeing to sign with the Jaguars should help set the market for Doug Martin and Lamar Miller.

>     http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2016/03/08/plenty-of-free-agent-help-especially-on-defense-still-available/

[kelly]

Free Agency: Flexibility Key for the Jets

The NFL’s Free Agency & Trading Periods Begin Wednesday at 4:00 PM

The landscape has changed for the Jets and the challenges that lie ahead are different. Last spring, the Jets entered free agency with their new GM declaring he would be very active in free agency. And now as we sit here a few hours before Mike Maccagnan’s second spring soiree, the reigning Pro Football Writers Association’s Executive of the Year has talked about the need to be very flexible.Maccagnan and his pro personnel staff had a masterful first offseason as they helped dramatically upgrade a roster in need of a facelift. Situated well under the cap, Maccagnan signed free agents Darrelle Revis,Buster Skrine, Marcus Gilchrist & James Carpenter, he re-signed David Harris and Bilal Powell, and he traded for Ryan Fitzpatrick and Brandon Marshall.

 

Then the Todd Bowles-led coaching staff meshed the pieces together and the Green & White increased their victory total from 4 in 2014 to 10 in 2015. Every one of the aforementioned acquisitions made significant contributions as the Jets hit double-digits in victories for the 1st time in 5 seasons and 6th time in 29 seasons.But the Jets didn’t make the playoffs and they would like to compete in the postseason each January. Last year, the Jets had approximately $50 million of cap space before the free agency/trading periods commenced. In their latest analysis, OvertheCap.com estimates the Jets have $6 million in cap space available after the team placed the franchise tag on Muhammad Wilkerson.“We know full well that the future of this long-term sustainability is the development of the younger players and really through the draft,” Maccagnan said recently. “So the thought process was to have some of these veteran guys kind of carry us or be very influential over the next year or 2 or 3, but all the while really we know the future of long-term success is to identify players through the draft and develop our younger players.”

 

While needs are definitely weighed into the equation come draft time, Maccagnan will fill holes now so he can take the best player available (see Williams, Leonard). Let’s take a position-by-position snapshot of the Jets as they enter free agency.

 

 

QB: Ryan Fitzpatrick (UFA), Geno Smith, Bryce Petty
Notable Free Agents: Brock Osweiler, Robert Griffin III, Chase Daniel
Analysis:After a career-year, the Jets want Fitzpatrick back. Reunited with Chan Gailey, Fitzpatrick thrivedplaying with the most talented personnel of his career. While both Smith and Petty have the desired physical skill sets for the position, the former has two years of starting under his belt while the latter has never taken an NFL snap.

TE: Jeff Cumberland, Kellen Davis (UFA), Jace Amaro, Zach Sudfeld (RFA), Wes Saxton,Brandon Bostick, Adrien Robinson
Notable Free Agents: Antonio Gates, Ladarius Green, Jermaine Gresham, Zach Miller, Coby Fleener, Owen Daniels, Vernon Davis
Analysis: Both Davis and Cumberland were used primarily as in inline blockers in 2015 and Maccagnan would like to add depth to the position. This will be a critical offseason for Amaro, a former second-round pick who missed all of 2015 following shoulder surgery.

 

WR: Brandon Marshall, Eric Decker, Quincy Enunwa, Devin Smith, Jeremy Kerley, Chris Owusu(UFA), Kenbrell Thompkins (RFA), Joe Anderson, Titus Davis, Chandler Worthy 
Notable Free Agents: Anquan Boldin, Mohamed Sanu, Rishard Matthews, Jermaine Kearse, Brian Quick, Rueben Randle
Analysis: The Jets are in outstanding shape at wideout considering Marshall and Decker are arguably the top tandem in the league, Enunwa is a versatile hybrid and the speedy Smith has a lot of potential. Depth always comes into play and special teams could be a deciding factor once we get to the summer.

 

OL: Nick Mangold, D’Brickashaw Ferguson, James Carpenter, Willie Colon (UFA), Brian Winters,Breno Giacomini, Ben Ijalana (UFA), Brent Qvale, Jarvis Harrison, Wesley Johnson,Dakota Dozier, Sean Hickey, Craig Watts, Lawrence Okoye
Notable Free Agents: Russell Okung, Alex Mack, Alex Boone, Andre Smith, Kelvin Beachum, Mitchell Schwartz, Brandon Brooks, Jahri Evans, J.R. Sweezy
Analysis: Maccagnan has always said that a lot of good offensive lines in this league have been built through the draft and not just the top picks either. “Our offensive line is still a good offensive line,” Maccagnan told season ticket holders in January. “We’re going to try to keep it intact, but ideally we’re going to try to groom, identify and target some young players to hopefully make that position more competitive. And down the road eventually (they) may earn a starting position.”

 

DL: Damon Harrison (UFA), Muhammad Wilkerson (Franchise Player), Sheldon Richardson,Leonard Williams, Leger Douzable (UFA), Mike Catapano, Stephen Bowen (UFA), Deon Simon
Notable Free Agents: Olivier Vernon (Transition Player), Jaye Howard, Chris Long, Nick Fairley, Derrick Shelby, Robert Ayers, Haloti Ngata, B.J. Raji, Greg Hardy, Terrance Knighton, Cedric Thornton
Analysis: Harrison expressed on Twitter this offseason that he believes the best is ahead of him. The Jets would like to retain his services and “Snacks” is a great example of internal development. A former undrafted free agent out of William Penn, Harrison took advantage of his situation and became one of the better interior players in football. Todd Bowles and defensive coordinator Kacy Rodgers have maintained the Jets are a 3-4 defense, but one that is very multiple and they like to bring the pressure.

 

LB: David Harris, Demario Davis (UFA), Erin Henderson (UFA), Calvin Pace (UFA), Lorenzo Mauldin,Trevor Reilly, Jamari Lattimore (UFA), Taiwan Jones, Deion Barnes, Josh Martin, Freddie Bishop
Notable Free Agents: Danny Trevathan, Derrick Johsnon, Jerrell Freeman, Nigel Bradham, Aldon Smith, Mark Barron, Dwight Freeney, Steven Tulloch, Courtney Upshaw, Rolando McClain, Nick Perry
Analysis: The Jets hope Mauldin can eventually develop into a three-down player on the outside. While Davis started last season alongside Harris, the Jets went to a rotational system with Henderson down the stretch. Since signing back in 2008, Pace has been a valuable contributor for the Jets while filling multiple roles.

 

DB: Darrelle Revis, Buster Skrine, Marcus Williams, Dee Milliner, Dexter McDougle, Marcus Gilchrist,Calvin Pryor, Dion Bailey, Rontez Miles, Ronald Martin, Darrin Walls (UFA), Jaiquawn Jarrett(UFA), Antonio Allen (UFA), Kevin Short
Notable Free Agents: Eric Weddle, Janoris Jenkins, Sean Smith, Prince Amukamara, Reggie Nelson, George Iloka, Walter Thurmond, Tashaun Gipson, Casey Hayward, Adam Jones, Patrick Robinson
Analysis: After releasing Antonio Cromartie, the Jets have a vacancy across from Darrelle Revis. Buster Skrine, Marcus Williams and Dee Milliner could compete for the position, but the Green & White may elect to add another CB in free agency as well.

Specialists:  Tanner Purdum ,  Nick Folk ,  Ryan Quigley  (RFA),  Randy Bullock  (UFA)
Analysis: After Folk suffered a significant quad injury, Bullock connected on 82.4% (14 of 17) of his field goal attempts. In his three seasons with the Green & White, Quigley has averaged a 38.9-yard net with 71 of his punts downed inside the 20-yard line.

>     http://www.newyorkjets.com/news/article-7/Free-Agency-Flexibility-Key-for-the-Jets/33df97a4-0629-4a50-abc5-691569141c1eMY JETS ACCOU 

• 2016 OPPONENTS
•  

[kelly]

The NFL's new league year is set to begin at 4 p.m. ET. What happens over the next 24 to 48 hours will greatly impact the New York Jets season. The top storylines :

1. Fitz in limbo: The Jets' starting quarterback is poised to hit the open market, and that's never a good feeling for a team. They're engaged in a game of poker with Ryan Fitzpatrick, daring him to bring back an offer better than theirs. There doesn't appear to be much of a market for him. If the Denver Broncos lose Brock Osweiler, their Plan B is Colin Kaepernick, according to the NFL Network. If that's accurate, it eliminates a potential landing spot for Fitzpatrick. The feeling around the league is that he will return to the Jets.

2. Snacks a hot commodity: Nose tackle Damon Harrison is generating a lot of interest, as expected, and the bidding war could get too rich for the Jets. Think about it: San Francisco 49ers nose tackle Ian Williamsre-signed for five years for a reported $5 million to $6 million per year, and he's not as good as Harrison. The Jets recognize Harrison's value, but they can't overspend for a two-down, run-stuffing lineman.

3. Finding the new Chris Ivory: The Jets are trying to re-sign No. 2 back Bilal Powell, who is drawing interest from a handful of teams. Don't be surprised if he stays in the AFC East. There's still a chance he stays with the Jets, but they'll need a physical, between-the-tackles runner to replace Ivory. They don't appear willing to pay a top-of-the-market price, so look for them to rely on the draft and the second wave of free agency. If they replace him with a player who has been cut, as opposed to an unrestricted free agent, it'll help their chances of getting a better compensatory pick in 2017.

4. The linebackers: Demario Davis probably won't last long on the open market. The Jets are willing to part with him and replace him with Erin Henderson, who will be cheaper to re-sign.

>   http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york-jets/post/_/id/58876/jets-trying-to-re-sign-key-free-agents-as-new-league-year-approaches

[kelly]

14 Things to Know About NFL Free Agency

Everything from the '16 Salary Cap to the Differences Between Restricted & Unrestricted Free Agents

Q.  When does the 2016 free agency signing period begin?

A.  At 4:00 p.m. ET on Wednesday, March 9.  
            

Q.  What are the categories of free agency?

A.  Players are either “restricted free agents” or “unrestricted free agents.”  A restricted free agent may be subject to a “qualifying offer.”  A restricted or unrestricted free agent may be designated by his prior club as its franchise player or transition player.
 

Q.  What is the time period for free agency signings this year?

A.  For restricted free agents, from March 9 to April 22.  For unrestricted free agents who have received the May 10 tender from their prior club, from March 9 to July 22 (or the first scheduled day of the first NFL training camp, whichever is later).  For franchise players, from March 9 until the Tuesday following the 10th week of the regular season, November 15.  For transition players, from March 9 until July 22.  If the above-listed players do not sign by November 15, they must sit out the season.  

Q.  What is the difference between a restricted free agent and an unrestricted free agent?

A.  In the 2016 league year, players with three accrued seasons who have received a qualifying offer become restricted free agents when their contracts expire at the conclusion of the 2015 league year.  Unrestricted free agents have completed four or more accrued seasons.  An unrestricted free agent is free to sign with any club with no draft choice compensation owed to his old club.

Q.  What constitutes an “accrued season”?

A.  Six or more regular-season games on a club's active/inactive, reserved/injured or reserve/physically unable to perform lists.

Q.  What could restrict the ability of a restricted free agent to sign with a new club?  

A.  If he has received a “qualifying offer” (a salary tender predetermined by the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the league and its players) from his old club.  He can negotiate with any club through April 22.  If the restricted free agent signs an offer sheet with a new club, his old club can match the offer and retain him because the qualifying offer entitles it to a “right of first refusal” on any offer sheet the player signs.  If the old club does not match the offer, it may receive draft choice compensation depending on the amount of its qualifying offer.  If an offer sheet is not executed on or before April 22, the player’s negotiating rights revert exclusively to his old club.  In addition, a player who would otherwise be a restricted free agent may be designated by his old club as its franchise player or transition player.

Q.  What determines an unrestricted free agent?

A.  A player with four or more accrued seasons whose contract has expired.  He is free to sign with any club, with no draft choice compensation owed to his old club, through July 22 (or the first scheduled day of the first NFL training camp, whichever is later).  At that point, his negotiating rights revert exclusively to his old club if by May 10 the old club tendered the player a one-year contract for 110 percent of his prior year’s salary.  His old club then has until the Tuesday following the 10th week of the regular season (November 15) to sign him.  If he does not sign by that date, he must sit out the season.  If no tender is offered by May 10, the player can be signed by any club at any time throughout the season.  

Q.  What determines a franchise player?

A.  The salary offer by a player’s club determines what type of franchise player he is: exclusive or non-exclusive.  

An “exclusive” Franchise Player – not free to sign with another club – is offered the greater of (i) the average of the top five salaries at the player's position for the current year as of the end of the restricted free agent signing period on April 22; or (ii) the amount of the required tender for a non-exclusive franchise player, as explained below.

Article 10, Section 2(a)(i) of the CBA sets forth the methodology, known as the “Cap Percentage Average,” for calculating the required tender for a non-exclusive franchise player:

The Nonexclusive Franchise Tender shall be a one year NFL Player Contract for (A) the average of the five largest Prior Year Salaries for players at the position . . . at which the Franchise Player participated in the most plays during the prior League Year, which average shall be calculated by: (1) summing the amounts of the Franchise Tags for players at that position for the five preceding League Years; (2) dividing the resulting amount by the sum of the Salary Caps for the five preceding League Years . . . ; and (3) multiplying the resulting percentage by the Salary Cap for the upcoming League Year . . . (the “Cap Percentage Average”) . . . ; or (B) 120% of his Prior Year Salary, whichever is greater . . . .

If a club extends a required tender to a “non-exclusive” franchise player pursuant to this section, the player shall be permitted to negotiate a player contract with any club, except that draft choice compensation of two first-round draft selections shall be made in the event he signs with a new club.

Q.  How many franchise players and transition players can a team designate each season? 

A.  A club can designate one franchise player or one transition player among its potential restricted or unrestricted free agents.    

Q.  Can a club decide to withdraw its franchise or transition designation on a player? 

A.  Yes.  A club can withdraw its franchise or transition designation, and the player then automatically becomes an unrestricted free agent, either immediately if the tender is withdrawn after the start of the 2016 league year, or when his 2015 contract expires if the tender is withdrawn before the start of the 2016 league year.

Q.  What is the salary cap for 2016?

A.  The salary cap is $155,270,000 per club.

Q.  When must teams be in compliance with the salary cap?

A.  At the start of the 2016 league year, which begins at 4:00 p.m. ET on March 9.

Q.  If a team is under the salary cap at the end of a given season, can the team “carry over” room to the next season?

A.  Yes.  A team may carry over room from one league year to the following league year by submitting notice to the NFL prior to 4:00 p.m. ET on the day following the team’s final regular-season game, indicating the amount of room that the club wishes to carry over.

Q.  What is the maximum amount of room that a club can carry over?

A.  One hundred percent of its remaining room.

>    http://www.newyorkjets.com/news/article-7/14-Things-to-Know-About-NFL-Free-Agency/1aeb2153-59d0-4e30-8d62-31496e93af47

[kelly]

As the Jets sort out their free agency plan and defensive line situation, Manish Mehta of theNew York Daily News reported Monday that the Jets are prepared to pursue Rams defensive tackle Nick Fairley if necessary.

Jets nose tackle Damon Harrison is set to hit the free agent market Wednesday and probably will get more money than the Jets can afford. Mehta’s report said the Jets “would love to trade” defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson, who got the team’s franchise tag last week.

The Jets have some financial maneuvering to do and also have quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick and running back Chris Ivory set to hit the free agent market if they aren’t re-signed before it opens Wednesday.

Fairley signed an incentive-laden one-year deal with the Rams last March and played in 15 games as a backup defensive tackle. Though he had a quiet season statistically, he’ll likely land a healthy new contract because so many teams value his skill set as an interior pass rusher.

Fairley, 28, was a first-round pick of the Lions in 2011.

>      http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2016/03/07/report-jets-interested-in-nick-fairley/

[kelly]

Tuesday brought word that the Packers were showing interest in running back Matt Forte, who will become a free agent on Wednesday afternoon and has already been told that he won’t be returning to the Bears for the 2016 season.As you’d expect with a player with Forte’s resume, the Packers aren’t the only team that has him on their radar. Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports that the Jets and Dolphins are also interested in the veteran back and adds that his market could “heat up” once other backs sign deals.

Both AFC East teams appear to be on the verge of losing their leading rushers from last season in free agency. Chris Ivory has reportedly agreed to a deal with the Jaguars and the Jets could also lose Bilal Powell once the new league year gets underway. Meanwhile, Lamar Miller has been linked with a move from Miami to Houston.At this point in his career, Forte should probably be paired with another back to keep the wear and tear from catching up with him over the course of the season. He’s remained effective as both a runner and receiver, though, and would make sense as a short-term option for many teams.

>   http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2016/03/09/report-jets-dolphins-interested-in-matt-forte/

[kelly]

After spending the first eight seasons of his career with the Chicago Bears, Matt Forte has signed with the New York Jets.

During his tenure in Chicago, Forte racked up a massive 2,035 carries for 8,602 yards and 45 touchdowns. Extremely busy as a receiver, he caught 487 passes for 4,116 yards and 19 scores. No player exceeded his 2,522 touches and 12,718 yards from scrimmage during the span. Forte was on the field for just over 5,400 snaps, whereas no other running back exceeded 5,000.That's an extremely impressive resume, but it also raises questions about whether or not Forte will be able to hold up as he enters his age-30 season. That's especially the case considering Forte missed three games last season after missing a grand total of five during his first seven years in the league. Additionally, Forte's yards per carry dipped from 4.6 during the 2010-to-2013 seasons to 4.0 over the past two years.

That being said, Forte was effective during his most recent stretch of work. Despite a dip in efficiency from his prime years, he was productive as both a rusher and receiver in 2015. He finished among the top-12 running backs in fantasy points in seven (or 54 percent) of the 13 weeks he was active, which was the best mark at the position among the top 40 players at the position. Despite Chicago's efforts to get then-rookieJeremy Langford more involved, Forte finished fourth, 15th, fifth, 35th and sixth at the position during the final five weeks of the season.In New York, Forte takes over as the clear workhorse. Chris Ivory has signed with the Jaguars. Bilal Powell and/or Stevan Ridley could return, but both are free agents. That leaves Zac Stacy as Forte's primary backup. Considering Forte's age and massive workload over the past decade, New York will definitely add help, but it's unlikely to be a player that will keep Forte below 15 touches most weeks.

Forte's most-glaring weakness is in the pass blocking department, so a player like Powell or James Starks makes sense as a complement. Additionally, Forte has been brutal in converting near the goal line throughout his career, which explains consistent deficiencies in the touchdown department. Since entering the league, Forte has scored on 18 of 64 carries within three yards of the opponent's goal line. That 28.1 percent conversion rate is dead last among 42 backs with more than 25 carries during the span. One of free agents Joique Bell (62 percent) or Tim Hightower (60 percent) could help in that department. April's draft is rich with competent backs in the early and middle rounds, and the Jets figure to add a long-term solution on Day 2 or 3.Forte is in position for 15-plus touches in a Jets offense that finished sixth in both snaps and touchdowns last season. This is the same unit that allowed Chris Ivory to finish 10th in PPR fantasy points overall, and Bilal Powell to rank fifth during weeks he played in full last season. Forte very well could be as busy as Ivory as a rusher, and as involved as Powell as a receiver. On a week-by-week basis, Forte will be a no-brainer RB1, but concerns about him breaking down are real and should be considered on draft day.

>    http://espn.go.com/fantasy/football/story/_/id/14941935/what-matt-forte-value-new-york-jets-fantasy-football

[kelly]

free agents to watch for jets..

> http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2016/03/free_agents_to_watch_for_jets_on_friday.html#0

[kelly]

Rich CiminiESPN Staff Writer 

The Jets were busy with free-agent visits on Friday: QB Robert Griffin III, LT Kelvin Beachum, TE Jermaine Gresham, LB Shea McClellin, DE Jarvis Jenkins and WR Rod Streater. They're in talks with Jenkins and a deal could be reached.

 

 

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>   http://espn.go.com/nfl/team/_/name/nyj/new-york-jets

[32EBoozer]

3 minutes ago, kelly said:

Rich CiminiESPN Staff Writer 

The Jets were busy with free-agent visits on Friday: QB Robert Griffin III, LT Kelvin Beachum, TE Jermaine Gresham, LB Shea McClellin, DE Jarvis Jenkins and WR Rod Streater. They're in talks with Jenkins and a deal could be reached.

 

 

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>   http://espn.go.com/nfl/team/_/name/nyj/new-york-jets

Doesn't Cimini know thast Beachum is scheduled for next week?

[kelly]

The Chicago Bears lost one of their surprisingly productive contributors from the 2015 season today, as defensive lineman Jarvis Jenkins agreed to a three-year, $6 million deal with the New York Jets.

Jenkins joined the Bears on a one-year contract last season as one of general manager Ryan Pace’s stop-gap signings for coach John Fox during the defense’s transition period.  Jenkins produced beyond anyone’s expectations, totaling 32 tackles, 4 sacks and 1 pass defended, all career highs.

The Bears transitioned to a 3-4 scheme last year after building a roster that was geared to a 4-3 front.  In fact, until last year, the Bears had never fielded a 3-4 front.Pace had to identify players that could come in right away and contribute.  Jenkins not only did that, but he revived his career along the way.He now heads to the Jets where he is expected to compete for a starting job.  He’ll join an extremely talented front that includes the likes of Muhammad Wilkerson and Sheldon Richardson.  The best is likely yet to come from Jenkins.

The Bears are actively meeting with Patriots’ free agent defensive lineman Akiem Hicks.  The urgency to sign him is now elevated with Jenkins leaving town.

>    http://bearswire.usatoday.com/2016/03/11/jets-sign-jarvis-jenkins-to-three-year-deal/

[kelly]

The cap-strapped New York Jets haven't exactly been wallflowers in the free-agency market, but they haven't come close to approaching last year's life-of-the-party status. Hardly a surprise.The headline moves have come at the running back position, where they retained Bilal Powell and added Matt Forte and Khiry Robinson. Other than a flirtation with pass-rusher Olivier Vernon, who signed a monster deal with theNew York Giants, the Jets have been shopping at the second-tier level, looking for value among players in their late 20s. They haven't signed any, perhaps because of their cap situation.

An update :

STILL AVAILABLE

Robert Griffin III, quarterback : You may have heard he visited the Jets last Friday and Saturday. With Ryan Fitzpatrick unsigned, the Jets are checking out the quarterback market. There's mutual interest, but both sides are playing the field.

Kelvin Beachum, left tackle: His visit last Friday sparked speculation about D'Brickashaw Ferguson's future. Beachum is a good player, but he's only five months removed from ACL surgery. The Pittsburgh Steelers would like to keep him, perhaps on a one-year contract, but they've also reportedly made an offer to Russell Okung.

Jarvis Jenkins, defensive end: He, too, visited last Friday. The Jets are loaded at defensive end, but they could use a rotational player who can play end and tackle. Jenkins is coming off a solid season with the Chicago Bears.

Shea McClellin, linebacker: The Bears signed Danny Trevathan and Jerrell Freeman to be their inside linebackers, so McClellin -- a former first-round pick -- appears to be out of a job. The Jets, who visited with him last Friday, are looking for somebody to play alonsgide David Harris.

Steve McLendon, nose tackle: Damon Harrison's departure has left a void in the middle of the defense. McLendon, 30, is a serviceable starter who played 34 percent of the defensive snaps last season for the Steelers. He visited with the Jets on Monday.

OFF THE MARKET

Jermaine Gresham, tight end: The Jets reportedly offered a four-year deal, but it wasn't good enough. Gresham, who visited last Friday, returned to theArizona Cardinals for one year, $3.5 million. He would've been an upgrade overKellen Davis, who wound up returning on a one-year deal for $965,000.

Marcus Sherels, cornerback: He visited the Jets on the first full day of free agency. They were intrigued by his punt-returning ability, especially since they have no punt returner. He wound up re-signing with the Minnesota Vikings for $4 million over two years ($1.5 million guaranteed).

Rod Streater, wide receiver: The Jets don't need a receiver, but they evidently saw a good value. Streater was among the parade of visitors last Friday, but he signed a modest deal with the Kansas City Chiefs -- one year, $810,000.

>        http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york-jets/post/_/id/59044/the-jets-are-browsing-but-not-buying-much-in-the-free-agent-market

[kelly]

WHY FREE AGENCY IS A DANGEROUS GAME

Teams that shelled out guaranteed money on the open market in the past two offseasons haven't gotten the desired results. Consider this a warning to this year's big spenders. (We're looking at you, Giants.)

 

 

> http://espn.go.com/nfl/team/_/name/nyj/new-york-jets

 

 

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[kelly]

Jets Continue to Look for Value in Free Agency

In a Competitive Marketplace, the Green & White Continue with a Smart, Methodical Approach

Although Ryan Fitzpatrick remains a free agent, Jets GM Mike Maccagnan has not changed his stance on the veteran quarterback.“Our focus is ideally to get Ryan back in the organization and continue forward with him,” Maccagnan said last week before departing for the NFL Owners Meetings in Boca Raton, FL. “At some point of time, you have to implement things if you feel you have exhausted all options of trying to get something done. But in my mind, that’s not something we’re focused on quite frankly right now. Right now, Ryan is a free agent and we’re actively trying to facilitate a contract with him. If and when it works out or if it does or doesn’t, we’ll go through that process. And if we have to get to the next stage which is go into other possibilities, we’ll approach that then.”

 

During the first weekend of free agency, the Green & White entertained Robert Griffin III at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center. The 26-year-old Griffin, who was the No. 2 overall selection in the 2012 NFL Draft, played three seasons in D.C. while completing 63.9% of his passes for 8,097 yards with 40 TD and 23 INT. Griffin also averaged 6.1 yards per carry and added eight scores on the ground.“Robert Griffin was a player we looked at and again our focus primarily is trying to get something worked out with Ryan,” Maccagnan said. “But again we’re just doing our due diligence and seeing what else is out there. It was a good meeting, it was more of a ‘meet and greet’ type situation with him where we got a chance to interact with him a little bit sort of face-to-face. And if we decide we want to continue to follow it up, we’ll pursue it down the road at some point of time."

Thus far in Maccagnan’s second spring, the Jets have revamped their running back stable while the middle of their defense is undergoing a transformation as well.The Jets created a new trifecta at the top of their RB depth chart as veterans Matt Forté and Khiry Robinson will join Bilal Powell in the offensive backfield. After eight years in Chicago, Forté should find comfort in Chan Gailey’s offensive attack. Gailey likes to get his backs involved not only in the run game, but also by creating favorable matchups in the pass game as well. The 6’2”, 218-pound Forté has reached the 1,000-yard mark in three of the past four seasons and he has also averaged 61 receptions throughout his career.“When we looked at the free agency market, we knew Forté was out there and we liked him quite a bit,” Maccagnan said. “We know he’s a little bit older than some of the other backs, but he’s still a very good back.”

 

Powell, one of three Jets UFA backs entering the new league year, excelled late in 2015. During the Green & White’s five-game win streak, Powell emerged as a critical piece while averaging five receptions per game and scoring three touchdowns. The sturdy 5’10”, 204-pounder has always been solid in protection and runs well out of the shotgun formation.Robinson joined the roster hours after another ex-Saint departed. Fresh off his first 1,000-yard season as a pro, the hard-charging Chris Ivory signed a lucrative deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars. An undrafted free agent out West Texas A&M University in 2013, the 6’0”, 220-pound Robinson averaged 4.1 yards per carry and added 25 receptions in three seasons with the Saints. Robinson is a powerful runner who could help the Jets in short yardage situations.“Losing Chris we were disappointed in, but we’re happy for that he got a good offer, a good deal done from another team,” Maccagnan said. “And it gave us the ability sort of redirect some of our funds to other positions, other places to make the impact of our cap situation a little better for us.”

 

In other offensive transactions, the Jets released both TE Jeff Cumberland and WR Jeremy Kerley. Cumberland had been used primarily as an inline blocker last season and the Jets like their depth at wide receiver. Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker became one of the top tandems in football whileQuincy Enunwa emerged in his second pro season and New York’s AFC representative has high hopes forDevin Smith. The Jets also re-signed veteran TEs Kellen Davis & Zach Sudfeld and veteran WRKenbrell Thompkins signed his tender.Prior to the start of free agency, the Jets placed the franchise tag on Muhammad Wilkerson. Then after Damon “Snacks” Harrison signed a huge deal with the cross-town Giants, the Jets added a veteran DL inSteve McLendon. The 6’7”, 348-pound McLendon, who played six seasons for the Steelers, has appeared in 79 career games while totaling 90 tackles and five sacks. He is a space eater who helped the Steelers finish No. 5 against the run last season while playing the nose and some defensive end in sub packages. The Jets some added depth at DE with the signing of Jarvis Jenkins. Originally a second-round pick of the Redskins in the 2011 NFL Draft, the 6’4”, 315-pound Jenkins posted a career-high four sacks last season with the Bears.

 

“They've agreed to terms with us,” Maccagnan said of McLendon and Jenkins. “Both of them, in our minds, were good value-type guys in the marketplace. That's what we sort of went in looking for. ... McLendon has experience at the nose tackle position, Jenkins has played more of all positons on the defensive line.”After starting the past three seasons alongside David Harris, Demario Davis joined the Cleveland Browns.  Veteran Erin Henderson, who joined a rotation with Davis late last season, has reportedly drawn in interest from multiple suitors. The Jets also have some young players on their roster including Taiwan Jones, a standout at Michigan State who spent most of last season on the team’s practice squad, and outside rusherFreddie Bishop, a recent signee who racked up 11 sacks last season for the CFL’s Calgary Stampeders. Last week, the Jets hosted both WR-PR Jordan Norwood and LB Courtney Upshaw.

 

“There are still some good players out there and potentially some players who could help us,” Maccagnan said. “But both those visits went very well. We’ll see what happens as they go forward.”The Jets entered free agency with 23 free agents and 13 remain. Two of them were regulars in the lineup and Fitzpatrick has dominated the conversation outside of One Jets Drive.“We like Ryan. We’d like very much to get Ryan back in the fold,” Maccagnan said. “Like every free agency, there are two camps and you have to work through this and eventually hopefully we can find a middle ground at some point of time. We’ll see.”

>    http://www.newyorkjets.com/news/article-6/Jets-Continue-to-Look-for-Value-in-Free-Agency/df5959d6-1635-4221-ac15-f6947f265782

 

[nyjets782]

Wow... I think McLendon just added about 4-5 inches and 40 pounds once he signed with us.

[kelly]

Fact or Fiction : Jets Free Agency

Bleacher Report’s Matt Miller Believes in Young WR Devin Smith

 

video..

>    http://www.newyorkjets.com/videos/videos/Fact-or-Fiction-Jets-Free-Agency/8f2b3d10-4535-45a9-a8db-ed4a0402f8bc

[kelly]

While chatting with reporters Tuesday at the NFL Annual Meeting in Boca Raton, Fla., Jets coach Todd Bowles was understandably asked a lot of questions about his uncertain quarterback situation, and defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson's protracted contract negotiations. But Bowles also addressed the four outside free agents the Jets have signed so far this offseason: running backs Matt Forte and Khiry Robinson, nose tackleSteve McLendon, and defensive end Jarvis Jenkins. Forte and McLendon figure to be starters, while Robinson and Jenkins will be backups. 

Click here for a whole lot more on what Bowles said about Forte.

But lest the other three guys get overlooked, here's what Bowles said about them :

Bowles' take on Robinson:"Before he got hurt, Khiry is a tough running back. We think, with injuries in the league, we need a three-back-pronged set. Signing him, if he can get healthy, I think will be a real bonus for us, because the kid is tough. He puts his head down and works, and I think he'll surprise some people." 

Our take on Robinson: He is clearly the No. 3 back behind Forte and Bilal Powell. But Robinson does give the Jets a power-running element that they enjoyed withChris Ivory, who left for Jacksonville in free agency. Robinson is coming off a fractured tibia — an injury he sustained Nov. 1 against the Giants. Presuming it is a standard broken lower leg, Robinson should be ready for Week 1. 

Bowles' take on McLendon: "Ultimate nose tackle, but he has some position flex. He can play defensive end as well. I think we're going to be pleased with him, because he's a good all-around player. We lost a good one [Damon Harrison], but we think we got a good one, too. 

"[McLendon] is one of the guys [who could replace Harrison]. We have a few guys. We have a couple guys that can play up and down the line of scrimmage. As you get different players, your scheme changes a little bit here and there. As Stevie fits in and we see what he does best, we'll do what we need to do going forward."

Our take on McLendon: It's interesting to hear Bowles say McLendon could play some defensive end. However, he does figure to be the initial primary replacement for Harrison, who left for the Giants in free agency. Harrison is one of the NFL's best nose tackles, so it won't be easy for McLendon to step into his spot. Bowles is flexible with his defensive line, and he said the Jets could play more four-man fronts. (They played some last year.) Defensive ends Leonard Williams,  Sheldon Richardson, and Wilkerson are all capable of lining up inside at times. But the only other true nose tackle on the Jets' roster, besides McLendon, is Deon Simon, a rookie last season whom the Jets drafted in Round 7. 

Bowles' take on Jenkins: "Jarvis is a three-down player. He can move across the line of scrimmage. Good interior pass rusher. Has power and has some speed. We thought we upgraded there a little bit from a backup standpoint, that can come in and play." 

Our take on Jenkins: Jenkins gives the Jets a younger depth guy at defensive end, to spell Williams, Richardson, and Wilkerson. Jenkins will be 28 when next season begins. The Jets' top two backup defensive linemen last season — Stephen Bowen and Leger Douzable — are both free agents. Bowen will be 32 when next season opens, and Douzable will be 30. 

>         http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2016/03/how_does_jets_todd_bowles_see_his_new_free_agents.html#incart_river_index

[kelly]

For many Jets fans, this offseason has been too slow and methodical for their liking, especially after their spending spree last year.The reality is that New York has been forced to be patient this off season because they don’t have the embarrassment of riches that they had last year. Despite last year’s shopping spree, general managerMike Maccaganan and his team have done a nice job of structuring contracts for the future.

Looking ahead, New York has set up future contracts in a way that there is very little guaranteed money on the table for next year and beyond. In fact, next season, the Jets are set to have $40 million in available cap space.Only Darrelle Revis, Matt Forte and Bilal Powell carry significant guaranteed money on the books. So, in other words, the Jets have great flexibility with their roster if they choose to make cuts next season.

Important veterans such as Brandon Marshall, Nick Mangold andDavid Harris are set to count $23 million on next year’s cap, however none of that money is guaranteed.All three players will be at least at least 33 years old prior to to the 2017 season.

Even D’Brickashaw Ferguson, 32, who’s set to count a whopping $14.3 million on next year’s cap, can be cut with just $1.3 million indead money next year.If New York can afford it, they should not restructure Ferguson this season if it compromises their flexibility with his contract next season.This flexibility will allow the Jets sign more players and even give a long term contract extension to either Sheldon Richardson or Muhammad Wilkerson if he is not traded this year.

Richardson will have a fifth year option in his rookie contract that the Jets will likely exercise.Right now the NFL salary cap is a shade above $155 million, according to Spotrac, but teams are expecting that to spike even more next year.As it stands right now, the Jets are primed to be big players in free agency next year.

>      http://jetswire.usatoday.com/2016/03/24/jets-set-to-be-free-agent-spenders-in-2017/

[Integrity28]

Came across this site that provides list of all Jets FA activity:

http://jetswire.usatoday.com/2016/03/14/new-york-jets-free-agency-hub-rumors-signings-and-more/?utm_content=bufferb1692&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer