As Tuesday’s free agency period draws near, ESPN New York’s Rich Cimini reports that the Jets have “accelerated” contract talks with free agent nose tackle Sione Pouha.
Per Cimini, there are “strong indications” a long-term contract will be finalized for Pouha before the market opens.
Under the new salary cap, franchise tagging Pouha would have cost the Jets $7.96 million. The Jets passed on that opportunity, presumably because they’re confident an extension can be reached.
Pouha, who turned 33 last month, finished the 2011 season with 58 tackles, one sack, a safety, and a forced fumble.
SI.com’s Peter King recently ranked Pouha as a top-20 free agent.