Declining Lito's option seems like the obvious play here, but I wouldn't be opposed to bringing him back as a UFA if he's interested in returning. He's better than Lowery and will probably come dirt cheap because these injuries have depressed his market value.
I think the Jets will probably try to pull a Vilma and sign Lito back after he goes FA - but they might have their eye on someone else in FA or the draft. Lowery could be a good nickel, but I haven't seen anything from him yet to indicate he can handle starting responsibilities. Lito has held his own when healthy this year, he just doesn't stay healthy. Stop-gap? Maybe.
Uh, wasn't that what the Jets tried last time they played? I don't think that worked out too well. It seemed like every catch he made there were four or five Jets within three yards of him. Didn't seem to stop him.
I'm not sure what they were doing that game, not sure if they know. He was pretty wide open for a guy that was being paid attention to at all let alone doubled.
This blog entry is speculation and not very well written, either. It's possible Lito will return, just not as his contract is currently structured. What it did was make a misleading blog title for the "news" about Lito's option likely not being exercised. Zero information here.
Like how Lito has played, but he's only on the field 20% of the time... Also...Carlos Rogers of the Redskins, and maybe Tramon Williams of the Packers may well be available........
I really loved what Stickland was doing this year before he started getting banged up. Revis, Lowery, Strickland and Lito is really a fine cb crew imo. I think they should sign Lito again if he doesn't cost too much and then spend the extra money elsewhere (both lines are a priority.)
I liked Strickland, too. He was effective. Belichick knew he was effective against his primary offensive weapon in Welker and he headhunted Strick with an offensive lineman.
I liked Lito when he's been healthy. Therein lies the problem though, he can't stay healthy. Plus, his last season in Philly he pouted because he was basically a slot DB. No thanks to anything long term with him. He's shown enough of a propensity to be injured so other teams likely will be lukewarm to him as well. I'd take him back with an incentive loaded contract based on his health. If he says no, cut our losses and move on...
If it's an uncapped season we have no clue what they'll do at this point. If you think Mike Tannenbaum wouldn't swap a 2nd round pick for a 4th and a proven cornerback you haven't been watching him GM very closely. In fact, if it's an uncapped season I'm fairly sure the Jets will pay the bonus, give up the 2 for the 4 and keep Sheppard. Edit: just wanted to note that I don't think this is a good thing but I definitely think it could happen.
