It didn’t get much attention in NFL circles this offseason when special-teams ace Larry Izzo switched teams and allegiances while remaining in the same division.
Given the icy history between the New England Patriots and the New York Jets, at least between Patriots coach Bill Belichick and former Jets coach Eric Mangini, Izzo signing with the Jets did raise a few eyebrows in the combative AFC East.
Izzo was a fan favorite, an expert in kick coverage as a three-time Pro Bowl selection who won three Super Bowl rings in New England.
And Izzo acknowledged during an interview with Christopher L. Gasper of the Boston Globe that it was a bit awkward at first to make the change.
However, Izzo was accustomed to changing teams having already done so before when he left the Miami Dolphins eight years ago.
“Obviously, when you first make the move, the first time you’re in the building it’s a little surreal, crossing over to another team in the division,” Izzo said. “But having done it once already I was able to make a smooth transition.”
One major reason behind Izzo’s shift was the opportunity to play for Mike Westhoff, his old Dolphins’ special teams coach.
Plus, the Patriots reportedly didn’t exactly push to retain Izzo.
“It wasn’t as if there was any great attempt, not to get into too many details,” Izzo said. “It was time to move on. I had a nice conversation with Bill.
“[Patriots owner Robert] Kraft reached out to me when the news came that I would not be back. The eight years, the experience I had there with that organization, I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”
Of course, brash new Jets coach Rex Ryan has already thrown down the gauntlet by saying he didn’t come to New York to “kiss Bill Belichick’s rings.”
So, Izzo finds himself right in the middle of what shapes up as a rivalry that will remain a spicy one.
For whatever reason (lost a step?), Belichick didn’t want Izzo back. It’s just business and Izzo and Belichick will handle all of this better than Ryan. Ryan is a douchebag.
I have a tough time believing that anyone – from fans to coaches to the front office – is going to hold it against Izzo or most any player for playing for a division rival.
There comes a point when aging, slower veterans need to make way for the next generation – and since he already is familiar with the two other teams he’ll be facing – it makes sense for everyone.
Izzo who?
What’s a Larry Izzo?
In his rookie year with Zach Thomas, we used to call the two of them Fred Flintstone & Barney Rubble since they were inseparable (roomates and good friends) and looked so much like those two cartoon characters. Good guys, wish them both the best.
Hey fatman,
Pats = Douche
GO J-E-T-S !