Several media outlets are reporting that the New York Jets are prepared to use their franchise tag on linebacker David Harris. The tag would pay Harris approximately $10 million dollars for the upcoming season, which is the going rate for the top inside linebackers in the NFL. Before you flip your financial panic button, Gang Green is using the tag to buy some time as the team is said to be working on a long-term deal for David with a price range of $7-8 million dollars per year.
This is an interesting move by the Jets as an argument can be made to place the franchise tag on a player like Antonio Cromartie, Braylon Edwards, or Santonio Holmes. Clearly Rex Ryan feels that Harris is an important part of his defense, but I am not so sure that I would risk letting both Holmes and Edwards leave town. With 17 potential free agents on the roster, the Jets front office is going to have their hands full this offseason. This could be a very different Jets team next season.
Parting Shots
1) Edwards over Holmes- I think that the Jets are going to have a hard time re-signing both Braylon Edwards and Santonio Holmes. If I had to choose between the two, I am selecting Edwards. Braylon has become a very well rounded receiver that seems to have bought into the team concept. I love the big play abilities of Santonio, but it is no secret that he will be looking to break the bank with his next deal.
2) No Ochocinco- Recently Darrelle Revis commented that he would love to see his friend, wide receiver Chad Ochocinco, play for the Jets. With all due respect Darrelle, thank you, but no thank you. Mark Sanchez needs receivers that are willing to work on their game, not their new marketing schemes.