2011 NFL Offseason: New York Jets
Draft Grades, Season Previews, Offseason Needs, Free Agents
New York Jets (Last Year: 11-5) - Buy Tickets
2011 NFL Season Preview:
Veteran Additions:
WR Plaxico Burress, WR Derrick Mason, DE/OLB Aaron Maybin, CB Donald Strickland.
Draft Picks:
DE/DT Muhammad Wilkerson, NT Kendrick Ellis, RB Bilal Powell, WR Jeremy Kerley.
Offseason Losses:
WR Braylon Edwards, WR Jerricho Cotchery, WR/KR Brad Smith, OT Damien Woody, DE/DT Shaun Ellis, DE/DT Vernon Gholston, NT Kris Jenkins, DE/OLB Jason Taylor, CB Drew Coleman, P Steve Weatherford.
2011 New York Jets Offense:
People love to bash Mark Sanchez for whatever reason, but he was not responsible for his team's demise in the AFC Championship. In fact, Sanchez played extremely well throughout his entire second playoff run.
Sanchez was lucky not to have more than one interception in his first postseason contest against the Colts, but he ultimately led the game-winning drive. At New England, Sanchez was a solid 16-of-25 for 194 yards and three touchdowns. He was even better the weak after against the vaunted Pittsburgh defense, going 20-of-33 for 233 yards, two scores and no picks.
Sanchez did definitely struggle at times during the regular season - he led the NFL in dropped interceptions - but he finished the year well, and as a consequence, there's hope for the future. Sanchez is only 24, so he still has a lot of growing to do.
Unfortunately for the USC product, New York will be missing some pieces on offense from last year, most notably Braylon Edwards, who signed a 1-year deal with the 49ers this offseason. Sanchez still has a reliable No. 1 target in stud receiver Santonio Holmes, but he won't be able to depend on anyone else.
Plaxico Burress and Derrick Mason were added, but both are far from sure bets. Burress is 34 and has just spent two years in prison. He was slowing down even before he idiotically shot himself in the foot. Mason, meanwhile, is 37. He performed well with Joe Flacco this past season, but he now has to learn a whole new offense in a shortened offseason. Non-elite receivers don't exactly have the best track record when switching teams. Elsewhere, versatile weapon Brad Smith is gone, while tight end Dustin Keller continues to disappoint, as Rex Ryan refused to utilize Keller much last year because of his blocking liability.
The other major piece that is missing from New York's offense is right tackle Damien Woody, who announced his retirement this offseason. Wayne Hunter projects as a major downgrade; in just six starts last season, Hunter was guilty of eight penalties and four sacks. Though he won't admit it, Ryan will be praying that raw second-year Vladimir Ducasse overtakes Hunter for the job.
New York is set at three of the four other positions, with left tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson, center Nick Mangold and right guard Brandon Moore all playing at an extremely high level. The exception is left guard Matt Slauson, who was responsible for seven penalties and seven sacks in 2010, though he was solid in terms of opening up running lanes.
Speaking of which, Shonn Greene figures to shoulder more of a workload in his third season. Greene saw fewer carries (185) than LaDainian Tomlinson (219) in 2010, but the latter was nearly cut before he agreed to accept less money. Greene could be poised for a big year.
2011 New York Jets Defense:
The Jets tried their best to land Nnamdi Asomugha this offseason. The rest of the AFC has to be thrilled because Asomugha would have been a scary acquisition for this defense. With two shutdown corners, Rex Ryan would have the luxury of blitzing multiple defenders on every single play without sacrificing anything in coverage. It would have been a nightmare for opposing offenses.
Instead, New York will roll with the duo of Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie again, which is good enough. Revis is still the top cornerback in the NFL (unlike Asomugha, he can play multiple positions; plus, he's younger). Cromartie, meanwhile, had an up-and-down year. He was torched in the final two New England games and surrendered eight total touchdowns, though he did limit opposing receivers to a 47.8 completion percentage. Cromartie could be pushed eventually by second-year corner Kyle Wilson, who has practiced with much more confidence during this offseason's training camp.
Rounding out the secondary, the Jets are solid but unspectacular at the two safety positions. Jim Leonhard will start at free safety, while Brodney Pool was recently re-signed to man the strong safety gig. Eric Smith is currently listed as the starter there, but that can't last very long because Smith is terrible.
New York has a terrific defense in terms of stopping the run and shutting down opposing passing attacks, but it struggled in terms of getting to the quarterback. That could be the case again in 2011, as the only personnel change in the front seven is first-round rookie Muhammad Wilkerson replacing long-time veteran Shaun Ellis. Like all rookies, Wilkerson should struggle early on because of the brief offseason, but perhaps he can have a strong second half and dominate in the postseason. That's what Ryan has to be counting on anyway.
Joining Wilkerson up front are end Mike Devito and nose tackle Sione Pouha, both of whom are stout against the run, but provide absolutely nothing in terms of a pass rush. Trevor Pryce was the nickel rusher on the defensive line last year, but was pretty much ineffective aside from a surprise performance against Pittsburgh in the AFC Championship. Pryce is gone, however, so the job could be given to Marcus Dixon, who has played in only three NFL games.
New York's two starting rush linebackers combined for only 11.5 sacks. That definitely needs to improve, and perhaps could if Calvin Pace can stay healthy. Pace missed the first four games of the season with a foot injury and was never 100 percent. The 32-year-old Bryan Thomas, however, is a rapidly declining player. There was some thought to releasing him this offseason, but that didn't happen because Jason Taylor defected for Miami. Aaron Maybin was signed in the middle of August, but the former No. 11 overall pick isn't expected to contribute.
The area of strength of the Jets' defense is the interior; with Pouha and Devito doing a great job up front, it allows stud inside linebackers David Harris and Bart Scott to rack up tackles. Harris received a well-deserved 4-year, $36 million contract in early August.
2011 New York Jets Schedule and Intangibles:
Considering how scared Rex Ryan was to use Nick Folk on occasions last year, it's a surprise he brought him back. Folk went 30-of-39 last year, but was just 3-of-6 from 40-49 and 2-of-5 from 50-plus.
Mediocre punter Steve Weatherford is gone, making way for Chris Bryan, who maintained a disgraceful 37.4 average in four games with the Buccaneers last season.
Brad Smith and his two kickoff touchdowns are gone. Rookie Jeremy Kerley will be the new punt and kickoff return specialist, so it remains to be seen how he'll fare.
The Jets have a pretty balanced schedule. They have to battle the likes of the Ravens, Chargers, Eagles, Giants, Cowboys and Patriots twice, but they also get the Jaguars, Raiders, Broncos, Redskins, Chiefs, Dolphins twice and Bills twice.
2011 New York Jets Positional Rankings (1-5 stars):
Quarterbacks |
|
Offensive Line |
|
Secondary |
|
Running Backs |
|
Defensive Line |
|
Special Teams |
|
Receivers |
|
Linebackers |
|
Coaching |
|
2011 New York Jets Analysis: Rex Ryan's predictions once again won't come to fruition. The Jets are a very good team, but they've declined just a bit this offseason. They could reach their third consecutive AFC Championship because of great coaching and an outstanding defense, but unless Mark Sanchez takes a huge leap forward, a first- or a second-round playoff exit is more likely.
Projection: 10-6 (2nd in AFC East)
2011 Fantasy Football Rankings
More 2011 NFL Season Previews
*** 2011 NFL DRAFT GRADES, OFFSEASON NEEDS BELOW COMMENT BOARD ***
2011 NFL Draft Grades:
Like the Patriots, the Jets had to improve their front seven in the 2011 NFL Draft. While New England floundered around and made some questionable picks, New York got the job done.
The Jets really bolstered their defensive line with great value selections Muhammad Wilkerson and Kenrick Ellis, assuming the latter stays out of prison. They're going to dominate the trenches.
The only thing the Jets failed to do was find some help at rush linebacker. They could have done so at pick No. 126. Instead, they selected a dime-a-dozen running back who won't contribute much anytime soon.
Overall 2011 NFL Draft Grade given on 5/1/11: A-
2011 NFL Draft Individual Grades:
30. Muhammad Wilkerson, DE/DT, Temple
"You could argue the Jets just made the best pick in the first round." -- Mel Kiper. It's certainly in the top five. Muhammad Wilkerson is one of the top players available and fills a huge need for New York. Wilkerson has experience in the 3-4, so there are no conversion issues. (Pick Grade: A)
94. Kenrick Ellis, NT, Hampton
The Jets land another stud prospect for their defensive line. Kenrick Ellis possesses early Round 2 talent, but has some character concerns. The Jets have a strong locker room, so they might be able to keep Ellis out of trouble. If so, he'll be a force against the run. (Pick Grade: A)
126. Bilal Powell, RB, Louisville
Bilal Powell fits the range at No. 126. That said, I don't know where he fits on the roster. With Shonn Greene, LaDainian Tomlinson and Joe McKnight set to make the roster, where does Powell come into play? (Pick Grade: C)
153. Jeremy Kerley, WR, TCU
Some much-needed insurance just in case the Jets can't re-sign Braylon Edwards, Santonio Holmes or Brad Smith. Jeremy Kerley probably could have gone a round earlier than this, so New York is getting some good value here. (Pick Grade: A)
208. Greg McElroy, QB, Alabama
The Jets needed a developmental quarterback behind Mark Sanchez. Greg McElroy is smart enough to be a reliable backup quarterback in the NFL for a long time. (Pick Grade: B)
227. Scotty McKnight, WR, Colorado
Mark Sanchez made this pick, but I'm not a fan of it. There were better prospects available. (Pick Grade: C)
Season Summary:
The Jets said they were the team to beat entering the year. It was an interesting season comprised of many distractions, but in the end, New York once again fell one game shy of the Super Bowl. The good news is that Mark Sanchez really improved toward the end of the season. The bad news is that the Jets have a ton of free agents due to hit the market soon.
Offseason Moves: Steelers sign WR Jerricho Cotchery
Patriots sign DE/DT Shaun Ellis
Jets sign WR Derrick Mason
49ers sign WR Braylon Edwards
Jets cut WR Jerricho Cotchery
Jets re-sign S Brodney Pool
Dolphins sign DE/OLB Jason Taylor
Jets re-sign CB Antonio Cromartie
Jets sign WR Plaxico Burress
Jets re-sign QB Mark Brunell
Jets re-sign S Eric Smith
Jets sign CB Donald Strickland
Bears sign DE Vernon Gholston
Jaguars sign CB Drew Coleman
Giants sign P Steve Weatherford
Jets cut QB Kevin O'Connell
Jets cut QB Mark Brunell
Bills sign WR/KR Brad Smith
Jets re-sign WR Santonio Holmes
Jets re-sign K Nick Folk
Panthers sign TE Ben Hartsock
Redskins sign QB Kellen Clemens
Jets announce retirement of OT Damien Woody
Jets sign ILB Nick Bellore
Jets re-sign OT Wayne Hunter
Jets cut TE Ben Hartsock
Jets tender S James Ihedigbo
Jets cut DE Vernon Gholston
Jets cut DE/OLB Jason Taylor
Jets cut NT Kris Jenkins
Jets cut OT Damien Woody
Jets franchise ILB David Harris
Jets sign K Nick Novak
Offseason Needs:
2011 NFL Free Agent Signings:
New York Jets Free Agents:
Salary Cap: No cap.
2011 NFL Free Agent Rankings Coming Soon
Divisional Rival History:
Buffalo Bills: The Jets have defeated Buffalo in five of the past six battles.
Miami Dolphins: The Jets used to dominate this rivalry, but the Dolphins have claimed three of the past four matchups.
New England Patriots: The Jets and Patriots have split their regular-season series the past two years. But it was Rex Ryan who had the last laugh, with New York beating New England in the playoffs, 28-21.
Features to be Posted This Offseason:
More 2011 NFL Offseason Pages:
DAL / NYG / PHI / WAS /
CHI / DET / GB / MIN /
ATL / CAR / NO / TB /
ARZ / SEA / SF / STL /
BUF / MIA / NE / NYJ /
BAL / CIN / CLE / PIT /
HOU / IND / JAX / TEN /
DEN / KC / OAK / SD /
2011 NFL Offseason Pages
2013 Fantasy Football Rankings - May 25
2013 NBA Mock Draft - May 22
2014 NFL Mock Draft - May 21
Charlie's 2014 NFL Mock Draft - May 20
NFL Picks - Feb. 3
Projection: 10-6 (2nd in AFC East)
2011 Fantasy Football Rankings
More 2011 NFL Season Previews
*** 2011 NFL DRAFT GRADES, OFFSEASON NEEDS BELOW COMMENT BOARD ***
|
pleaseeeee!
07-08-2012
11:31 am
xxx.xxx.xxx4.68
(total posts: 1)
17
8
please dont try to compare sanchez to eli..you look follish and ignorant. Eli is a born leader who lives in the film room and sanchez likes to chase women and do GQ photo shoots
Run-DMG
07-08-2012
10:24 am
xxx.xxx.xxx8.17
(total posts: 1)
25
16
In their first three years:
QBA: 690/1276, 8049 yards, 54 TD, 44 INT, 73.1 QBB: 782/1414, 9209 yards, 55 TD, 51 INT, 73.2 A is Eli Manning. B is Mark Sanchez.
chinbawambi
07-08-2012
09:43 am
xxx.xxx.xxx93.2
(total posts: 1)
23
7
For y'all hating on Walt out here about his Tebow love please tell me why you think Sanchez is an NFL caliber QB. Also, let me know how many Jets games you watch/have gone to. If Sanchez isn't good during the pre-season you will have Tebow chants starting then. Tebow despite all his faults is a proven team leader. It might turn out that Sanchez keeps his job but I suspect a mid-season change after the bye. Looking at their schedule if they don't sweep the Fins (they won't) they will be below .500 perfect time to switch giving Tebow 2 weeks to prepare for the game @ Seattle. This is a FREE gambling and analysis site folks get over yourselves.
chargers
07-08-2012
08:45 am
xxx.xxx.xxx0.85
(total posts: 1)
21
40
Ahhh I love it....with a few more acquisitions the jets will be ready for a full fledged circus act in Vegas!
Rob
07-08-2012
08:43 am
xxx.xxx.xxx.137
(total posts: 1)
6
6
People forget that the Jets were 8-5 heading into the last three games of the season in 2011. That's when the wheels came off and they then lost to Philly, the Superbowl-winning Giants, and the Dolphins. They are not nearly as bad as Walt is making them out to be and with Tebow, they will show the same success in the Red Zone they showed last year.
Make the playoffs? Probably not. Then again, the AFC isn't all that strong to begin with, so the Jets could still sneak in as a Wild Card. I love that the Bills are getting all this support when they've done nothing to earn it. Fitzpatrick was absolutely brutal after he received his big contract last season. I can guarantee they'll start out strong -- as they usually do -- and fizzle out soon after -- as they usually do. Jets: 8-8.
Niel, again
07-08-2012
06:22 am
xxx.xxx.xxx.215
(total posts: 2)
12
15
Oh, just forgot to throw in my last post, Tebow will never start for the Jets, the end.
umad bro?
Niel
07-08-2012
06:21 am
xxx.xxx.xxx.215
(total posts: 2)
10
7
I'm not even sure why I came here, but the first paragraph reminded me I hadn't read your idiocy since you refused to take Weeden out of your mock to the Jets in round 3(boy you were right on with that prediction)
Same Old Story
07-08-2012
06:09 am
xxx.xxx.xxx.216
(total posts: 7)
28
6
And in related news, Walt still wants Tebow to mount him like a trophy and f#ck his brains out.
Skipping over the usual Walt/Tebow idiocy...and by that I mean regarding the defense and only the defense since that's the only part of the article that Walt didn't slurp Tebow in. I loved Coples as a prospect, although I think he'd have been better off in a true 4-3 defense I still think he'll do pretty well and I expect Ryan to move him around, playing him at DE, DT, and maybe even a little OLB. I don't trust Antonio Crobabydaddy to prevent TDs any more than I trust him to lecture on preventing teen pregnancy, there's no reason for him to be giving up 6 TDs against #2 receivers. I think the Jets end up 7-9, and this could very well be the end of the Ryan/Tannabaum/Sanchez trio in New York. And before you jizz in your pants Walt if that's the case the next coach will either ax Tebow to avoid the headache or look for a replacement.
Joe
07-07-2012
09:52 pm
xxx.xxx.xxx.198
(total posts: 2)
13
7
Walter, the Jets Will be using the 4-3 as more of their base defense. They drafted two 4-3 personell in Coples and Davis to fill the holes.
This is gonna be their D most likely LE Wilkerson,Maybin(on 3rd down) DT Devito,Dixon NT Pouha,Ellis RE Coples,Pace,Richardson WLB Scott,Thomas MLB Harris,Mauga SLB Davis,Sapp FS Bell,Smith SS Landry Allen CB Revis,Cro,Wilson,Steed,Lankster,Lynn
@Chris
07-07-2012
09:37 pm
xxx.xxx.xxx.205
(total posts: 1)
11
5
Once every few months?
Then this must be the first time back since the Jets traded for tebow.
NY Animal
07-07-2012
08:06 pm
xxx.xxx.xxx4.99
(total posts: 1)
8
5
It doesn't matter who plays QB for the jets. The jets will go 5-11 regardless. The jets window has closed.
pheltz
07-07-2012
01:19 pm
xxx.xxx.xxx2.17
(total posts: 2)
6
5
In b4 6-10
Chris
06-18-2012
01:17 pm
xxx.xxx.xxx0.50
(total posts: 1)
122
110
Walter, I have been coming to your website for years and I appreciate some of the information you have. However, this assumption that you made, that Tim Tebow is the going to be the starter for the New York Jets, is utterly ridiculous and I have since questioned your credibility as a writer. Because of this I frequent your site less and less, and everytime I see this Tim Tebow nonsense it draws me farther and farther away from Walterfootball.com. I used to come everyday know its about once every few months.
Zimt
06-15-2012
04:37 am
xxx.xxx.xxx1.28
(total posts: 1)
9
7
Yup, that'll do it. You have my apprecatiion.
Greek G
05-16-2012
12:34 pm
xxx.xxx.xxx24.2
(total posts: 2)
23
45
The best two picks were RB Terrance Ganaway and Safety Antonio Allen; they were both value (although it always feels a little silly to talk about "value picks" in rounds 6 and 7) and they addressed an urgent team need.
Third best was WR Stephen Hill. Yes, he is a high risk/high reward project. The team desparately needs WR productivity. If he can learn to cut laterally (measurables say maybe; tape says probably not) and separate he has the potential to be a star. He has the hands and the eyes. I'd still give an overall grade of a D -- this draft just doesn't do much to make the team better in 2012; most of the picks are development projects at best, busts as the more likely alternative. |
2011 NFL Draft Grades:
Like the Patriots, the Jets had to improve their front seven in the 2011 NFL Draft. While New England floundered around and made some questionable picks, New York got the job done.
The Jets really bolstered their defensive line with great value selections Muhammad Wilkerson and Kenrick Ellis, assuming the latter stays out of prison. They're going to dominate the trenches.
The only thing the Jets failed to do was find some help at rush linebacker. They could have done so at pick No. 126. Instead, they selected a dime-a-dozen running back who won't contribute much anytime soon.
Overall 2011 NFL Draft Grade given on 5/1/11: A-
2011 NFL Draft Individual Grades:
30. Muhammad Wilkerson, DE/DT, Temple
"You could argue the Jets just made the best pick in the first round." -- Mel Kiper. It's certainly in the top five. Muhammad Wilkerson is one of the top players available and fills a huge need for New York. Wilkerson has experience in the 3-4, so there are no conversion issues. (Pick Grade: A)
94. Kenrick Ellis, NT, Hampton
The Jets land another stud prospect for their defensive line. Kenrick Ellis possesses early Round 2 talent, but has some character concerns. The Jets have a strong locker room, so they might be able to keep Ellis out of trouble. If so, he'll be a force against the run. (Pick Grade: A)
126. Bilal Powell, RB, Louisville
Bilal Powell fits the range at No. 126. That said, I don't know where he fits on the roster. With Shonn Greene, LaDainian Tomlinson and Joe McKnight set to make the roster, where does Powell come into play? (Pick Grade: C)
153. Jeremy Kerley, WR, TCU
Some much-needed insurance just in case the Jets can't re-sign Braylon Edwards, Santonio Holmes or Brad Smith. Jeremy Kerley probably could have gone a round earlier than this, so New York is getting some good value here. (Pick Grade: A)
208. Greg McElroy, QB, Alabama
The Jets needed a developmental quarterback behind Mark Sanchez. Greg McElroy is smart enough to be a reliable backup quarterback in the NFL for a long time. (Pick Grade: B)
227. Scotty McKnight, WR, Colorado
Mark Sanchez made this pick, but I'm not a fan of it. There were better prospects available. (Pick Grade: C)
Season Summary:
The Jets said they were the team to beat entering the year. It was an interesting season comprised of many distractions, but in the end, New York once again fell one game shy of the Super Bowl. The good news is that Mark Sanchez really improved toward the end of the season. The bad news is that the Jets have a ton of free agents due to hit the market soon.
Offseason Moves:
Offseason Needs:
- Rush Linebacker: To reach the Super Bowl, the Jets will have to beat some sort of combination of Ben Roethlisberger, Tom Brady, Peyton Manning and Philip Rivers. Thus, New York needs to find as many quality pass-rushers as possible. I'm sure Rex Ryan would love to get his hands on Justin Houston with the 30th pick in the 2011 NFL Draft.
- Defensive End: Shaun Ellis dominated the Patriots in the divisional round of the playoffs, but he's a 34-year-old free agent this offseason. If he leaves, the Jets will consider a five-technique with their first-round pick. Drafted Muhammad Wilkerson
- Cornerback: Antonio Cromartie is a free agent. Kyle Wilson is not ready to start yet. Re-signed Antonio Cromartie; signed Donald Strickland
- Inside Linebacker: David Harris is one of the talented free agents New York will have to retain. Franchised David Harris
- Wide Receiver: It doesn't seem like the Jets will be able to re-sign both Santonio Holmes and Braylon Edwards. If one walks, a replacement will be needed. Re-signed Santonio Holmes; signed Plaxico Burress and Derrick Mason; drafted Jeremy Kerley and Scotty McKnight
- Right Tackle: The Jets cut Damien Woody. They'll need a replacement.
- Nose Tackle: Sione Pouha is a solid nose tackle, but he's on the decline at 32 years old. Drafted Kenrick Ellis
- Kicker: Rex Ryan showed no confidence in Nick Folk throughout the season. He'll have to find a new kicker. Re-signed Nick Folk; signed Nick Novak
2011 NFL Free Agent Signings:
-
Derrick Mason, WR, Ravens. Age: 37. 
Signed with Jets (1 year)
Despite his age, Derrick Mason is a solid No. 2 possession wideout, serving as Joe Flacco's favorite receiver. It'll be surprising if the Ravens don't bring Mason back at a cheaper price - though there's always the possibility that Mason retires, which is something he's been threatening to do for quite some time.
-
Plaxico Burress, WR, Giants. Age: 34. 
Signed with Jets (1 year, $3 million)
Plaxico Burress has been out of football for two years, and he was slowing down even before he went to prison.
- Nick Bellore, ILB, Central Michigan. Age: 22.

-- Signed with Jets
- Nick Novak, K, UFL. Age: 30.

-- Signed with Jets
- Donald Strickland, CB, Chargers. Age: 30.
-- Signed with Jets
New York Jets Free Agents:
Salary Cap: No cap.
-
Santonio Holmes, WR, Jets. Age: 27. 



Re-signed with Jets (5 years, $50 million; $24 million guaranteed)
Receivers who switch teams tend to struggle, so it's amazing that Santonio Holmes was able to catch 52 balls for 746 yards and six touchdowns in only 11 games. Holmes has a knack for making big catches in important games, so if the Jets have to choose between him and Braylon Edwards, it's really no contest.
-
David Harris, ILB, Jets. Age: 27. 


Re-signed with Jets (4 years, $36 million; $29.5 million guaranteed)
A talented, versatile inside linebacker who is due for a big payday this offseason.
-
Shaun Ellis, DE/DT, Jets. Age: 34. 


Signed with Patriots
Shaun Ellis terrorized Tom Brady in the divisional round of the playoffs. He had a great year, but the concern is his age (34 in June).
-
Braylon Edwards, WR, Jets. Age: 28. 


Signed with 49ers (1 year, $3.5 million)
Braylon Edwards has been pretty good with drops this year, but will that remain the case once he signs a big contract?
-
Brad Smith, KR/CatQB, Jets. Age: 27. 


Signed with Bills (4 years, $15 million)
Listed at four stars for his return ability, Brad Smith took two kickoffs to the house in 2010. He also averaged 7.9 yards per carry out of the Wildcat position.
-
Antonio Cromartie, CB, Jets. Age: 27. 

Re-signed with Jets
Antonio Cromartie has his ups and downs, but overall is a decent, play-making No. 2 cornerback.
-
Brodney Pool, S, Jets. Age: 27. 

Re-signed with Jets
Brodney Pool has a dubious history of concussions, but he has proven to be a solid player for the Jets at both safety positions this season.
-
Vernon Gholston, DE, Jets. Age: 25. 

Signed with Bears
Vernon Gholston was a huge bust for the Jets as the No. 6 overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. I'm listing him at 2.5 stars, however, for three reasons. First, Gholston is only 25, and has a ton of upside and athleticism. Second, I'd like to see what Gholston can do in a traditional 4-3. And third, defensive ends usually take a while to transition to the NFL. Granted, Gholston has shown nothing, but there's a slim chance he could be a very late bloomer. He's worth the risk.
-
Jerricho Cotchery, WR, Jets. Age: 29. 
Signed with Steelers (1 year)
Jerricho Cotchery is a very good slot receiver when healthy. The problem is that he's coming off back surgery. He's reportedly healthy, but back injuries tend to linger and re-surface. Cotchery is a risk.
-
Damien Woody, OT, Jets. Age: 33. 
Announced retirement
Damien Woody's age (34 in November) and injury (torn Achilles) are the reasons why he's only rated two stars. Woody is a tremendous run-blocker and is adequate in pass protection, but his health is an issue.
-
Kris Jenkins, NT, Jets. Age: 32. 
Coming off a pair of torn ACLs, Kris Jenkins has played in just seven games the past two years.
-
Nick Folk, K, Jets. Age: 26. 
Re-signed with Jets
Nick Folk went 18-of-28 (64.3%) in 2009 and 30-of-39 (76.9%) this year. He's just not a dependable kicker.
-
Steve Weatherford, P, Jets. Age: 28. 
Signed with Giants
Steve Weatherford averaged a meager 42.6 yards per punt, but that's because he had a league-leading 42 attempts placed inside the 20. However, he really struggled in the playoffs. He inexplicably lost his confidence.
-
Jason Taylor, DE/OLB, Jets. Age: 37. 
Jason Taylor recorded five sacks with the Jets last season, but only two after Week 5.
- Eric Smith, SS, Jets. Age: 28.

-- Re-signed with Jets (3 years)
- Drew Coleman, CB, Jets. Age: 28.

-- Re-signed with Jaguars (3 years, $7.4 million)
- Wayne Hunter, OT, Jets. Age: 30.

-- Re-signed with Jets (4 years)
- Jason Taylor, DE/OLB, Jets. Age: 37.

-- Signed with Dolphins
- Trevor Pryce, DE/DT, Jets. Age: 36.

- Ben Hartsock, TE, Jets. Age: 31.

-- Signed with Panthers (2 years)
- Tony Richardson, FB, Jets. Age: 39.
- James Ihedigbo, S, Jets. Age: 27.
-- Tendered by Jets (no compensation)
- Mark Brunell, QB, Jets. Age: 40.
-- Re-signed with Jets
- Robert Turner (RFA), C, Jets. Age: 27.
- Jamaal Westerman, DE/OLB, Jets. Age: 26.
- Lance Laury, OLB, Jets. Age: 29.
- Kellen Clemens, QB, Jets. Age: 28.
-- Signed with Redskins
- Kevin O'Connell, QB, Jets. Age: 26.
2011 NFL Free Agent Rankings Coming Soon
Divisional Rival History:
Buffalo Bills: The Jets have defeated Buffalo in five of the past six battles.
Miami Dolphins: The Jets used to dominate this rivalry, but the Dolphins have claimed three of the past four matchups.
New England Patriots: The Jets and Patriots have split their regular-season series the past two years. But it was Rex Ryan who had the last laugh, with New York beating New England in the playoffs, 28-21.
Features to be Posted This Offseason:
- 2011 NFL Draft Grades (Pick-by-Pick NFL Draft Grades as well - Live on Draft Day!)
- Detailed season preview
- Fantasy football projections
- Positional rankings
- Daily updates on free-agent signings
More 2011 NFL Offseason Pages:
DAL / NYG / PHI / WAS /
CHI / DET / GB / MIN /
ATL / CAR / NO / TB /
ARZ / SEA / SF / STL /
BUF / MIA / NE / NYJ /
BAL / CIN / CLE / PIT /
HOU / IND / JAX / TEN /
DEN / KC / OAK / SD /
2011 NFL Offseason Pages
2013 Fantasy Football Rankings - May 25
2013 NBA Mock Draft - May 22
2014 NFL Mock Draft - May 21
Charlie's 2014 NFL Mock Draft - May 20
NFL Picks - Feb. 3
© 1999-2013 Walter Cherepinsky : all rights reserved
Privacy Policy
2 5 9


Leave a comment