Woody Johnson was quick to say he “misspoke” last year when he blatantly “tampered” with Patriots cornerback Darrelle Revis.
Apparently, he’s still talking about Revis, but keeping it within his building.
According to Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News, Johnson “has been involved in serious internal discussions” with General Manager Mike Maccagnan to make a push for Revis if and when he becomes available.
The Patriots would have to pick up a $20 million option bonus by March 9, part of the “placeholder” deal that helped Revis win his first Super Bowl. They’re working on a long-term deal to keep Revis there, and if nothing else, reports of Jets interest will at least make it more expensive.
But the Jets need Revis perhaps more than ever, since new coach Todd Bowles depends on his corners playing press-man so he can blitz more.
So it’s one thing for Johnson to say he’d “love to have Darrelle back,” but it’s easier to put that plan into motion now. The Jets have $51 million in cap room, and the means to bring him back.
Now they just have to get him away from the Patriots, and every other team in the AFC with a link to him and a need (Rex Ryan in Buffalo and Mike Tannenbaum in Miami).