Jets Free Agent Signings

Jets free agency: day 1

Admin - March 13, 2012

The New York Jets re-signed LB Bryan Thomas, who suffered a season ending injury last season, to a 1-year veteran's minimum. Thomas, 32, is the longest-tenured Jet who was drafted by the Gang Green in the first round in 2002. Once labeled a "bust", he never lived up to expectations of being the next John Abraham but did develop into a solid outside linebacker who started in 74 games since 2006. Thomas is a solid run defender and the Jets' perimeter run defense struggled without him last season.

Also, we now have more information on the contract signed by DT Sione Pouha. It's a 3-year deal for $15M, which includes $9.5M in guaranteed money.

The Gang Green also reportedly showed interest in WR Chaz Schillens of the Oakland Raiders. Schillens battled injuries throughout his four seasons with the Raiders. But he played in 15 games last season, finishing with 23 receptions for 271 yards and two touchdowns. He's 6'4" and could be Plaxico Burress' replacement in the red zone offense.

As expected, the Jets are also looking to fill in their void at the safety position. Reportedly the Gang Green have already expressed interest in S Brandon Meriweather and S Reggie Nelson. Meriweather was a 1st round pick by the Patriots in 2007 and made two Pro Bowls with the team before being cut  last September. He signed a one-year deal with the Bears where started in 4 games, registering 32 total tackles and defending 2 passes. Nelson started his career in Jacksonville but then was traded to the Bengals in 2010. Last season he started in all 16 games, registering 85 tackles (59 solo), 2 sacks, 4 interceptions and 2 forced fumbles.

The Jets are also expected to inquire about former Redskins S LaRon Landry.

Also, Lions QB Drew Stanton is expected to visit the Jets in the coming days. The Jets are shopping for a backup QB as QB Mark Brunell is simply too old to be back with the team for another season. Stanton played in 6 games in 2010 (3 starts), completing 69 of 119 passes (78.4%) for 780 yards, 4 TD, 3 INT.