Jets Free Agent Signings

Jets re-sign Cromartie, put Cotchery on trade block

Admin - August 1, 2011

Earlier today the New York Jets finally re-signed CB Antonio Cromartie whom they acquired last season from the San Diego Chargers. Cromartie, 27, will sign a 4-year contract worth $32M. Last season Cromartie registered 42 tackles (41 solo), defended 17 passes and intercepted 2. As we all know, the Jets wanted to sign CB Nnamdi Asomugha but the latter chose to join the Eagles, so the Jets had to settle for Cromartie instead.

Asomugha, 30, signed a 5-year contract with the Eagles and one really has to wonder whether it's wise to sign a 30-year old cornerback to such a big long contract. Cornerbacks usually start to decline after 30, so Asomugha might have 1-2 more years playing at his usual top level. Well, unless he's the next Darrelle Green who kept playing on top level well into 30's. Cromartie, on the other hand, is 27 and we might see him play out his entire 4-year contract in green and white.

The Jets also approached DE Shaun Ellis, who's currently a free agent, about the possibility to sign him to a 1-year deal. Ellis, who spent his entire career with the Jets, had 36 tackles (26 solo) and 4.5 sacks last season.

QB Mark Brunell was brought back yesterday after being released a few days ago to clear some salary cap room.

In another move to create more money for potential free agent signings, the Gang Gree lowered the salary of LB Bart Scott and LB Calvin Pace by $1M this year but will guarantee all of their salaries in 2012.

Finally, there's a report the Jets are willing to trade WR Jerricho Cotchery to create even more salary cap room. Are the Jets preparing to make another big signing?

UPDATE: GM Mike Tannenbaum didn't rule out adding another wide receiver.