At least the Jets know they are more than a kicker away.
The last time the team made a playoff run, they brought everyone back and drafted Mike Nugent. This time, there will be major changes. Here are some players that could be playing elsewhere next season.
Safety Kerry Rhodes: The New York Post writes that Rhodes’ chances of returning are as likely “Rex Ryan running the New York Marathon.” Ryan had a private conversation with Rhodes Monday he wouldn’t speak about. But look for them to try to trade him. Ryan wants physical play from his safety and Rhodes is due a $2 million bonus in March.
Cornerbacks Lito Sheppard and Donald Strickland: The team is expected to release both players. So the Jets need a lot of help in the secondary.
Vernon Gholston: As mentioned in today’s one-liners, the Newark Star-Ledger reports that “some in the organization are ready to move on” from the sixth pick in the 2008 draft. They could cut him with cap ramifications . . . since there won’t be a cap.
Thomas Jones: We wrote about this Sunday; the team faces a difficult choice considering the veteran running back’s salary.
Add it all up, and it’s clear the Jets won’t be standing pat in what is shaping up to be a very competitive AFC East.