CBS Sportline Jets Update 3/18

[The Fat Man]

http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/teams/report/NYJ/9318756

-New coach Eric Mangini is putting his stamp on the team based on the Jets' few signings thus far. Former New England linebacker/special teamer Matt Chatham was signed to a three-year deal and will be given a shot to start at inside linebacker in the Jets' new 3-4 defense, even though he's never been a starter before.

The 28-year-old Chatham is a young, multi-talented player who is well versed in the team philosophy used by the Patriots and now Mangini with the Jets. He's also cheap and the Jets want to follow the Patriots' way by filling their roster with moderately priced players.

--Oops! Somehow, Curtis Martin is listed fourth at running back on the Jets' depth chart on the team Web site - behind Cedric Houston, Derrick Blaylock and Terry Butler. Then again, this is the same website offering a "sale" on Kevin Mawae jerseys. Mawae was cut two weeks ago and has since signed with Tennessee.

--The Jets traded a late first-rounder for TE Doug Jolley right before the draft last year and the deal was a bust, with Jolley landing in the doghouse in training camp after complaining about his role. He finished with 29 catches for 342 yards and was rarely a factor in the offense as a blocker.

Yet he may be the starter should the Jets be unable to re-sign Chris Baker, who is being coveted by the Dolphins. Baker wasn't a standout but he was a rapidly improving athlete who stood out from time to time. The Jets could also use second-year player Joel Dreessen, a late-round pick last year who was viewed as a potential starter by the previous regime.

The Jets had already talked with Dan Campbell and Jermane Tuman but both signed elsewhere.

QUOTE TO NOTE

"The Seahawks have a first-class organization. From top to bottom I was really impressed." - DE John Abraham on his visit with the Seahawks as he looks into getting traded