Player Contracts

Jets sign last draft pick, closing in on Cromartie

Admin - July 31, 2011

All six draft picks are now under contract and will be in camp, as the New York Jets agreed on a deal with NT Kenrick Ellis. Ellis, 6'5", 345 lbs, was drafted to eventually replace retired NT Kris Jenkins. Many expected him to be drafted earlier but Ellis' legal problems put some teams off. The Gang Green, as it's been the case lately, took a chance and grabbed Ellis in the 3rd round (#94 overall).

Ellis was indicted in March on the charge of malicious wounding, a Class 3 felony in Virginia. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison. Another potential complication is that Ellis is not a U.S. citizen. He has "permanent resident" status. A permanent resident convicted of an aggravated felony is deportable, according to immigration law.

Following the announcement of his contact, Ellis tweeted, "Day 1 of a New Beginning. Thank You God for your blessings..."

Also, according to some reports, the Jets are now in the lead to re-sign CB Antonio Cromartie, who has become their number one priority after they failed to sign CB Nnamdi Asomugha. The Gang Green reportedly have made Cromartie an offer that's bigger than what he has seen so far from other teams.