Rich Cimini

  (12:00 PM)

Hi, everybody, thanks for stopping by for my Jets chat. Lots of stuff to discuss as training camp nears. Let's get started.

Trevor Gill (Ossining, NY)

With the news of T.O. and all of the other fre agents/trades the Jets have made going back to Brett Favre it got me wondering, who is the one calling the shots? Mike Tanenbaum seemed pretty safe when Mangini was here but now they are so aggresive...are these moves coming from Woody himself, and what is his main motivation, money? superbowl? fame? TELL ME! Thanks Rich.

Rich Cimini

  (12:03 PM)

Trevor, don't forget, the Favre trade happened on Mangini's watch. No, I don't think Woody Johnson is making these moves behind the scenes, but there's no question the Jets have adopted a different philosophy. They're more willing to take chances on "baggage" players than they were under Eric. I think some of that comes from Rex Ryan, who has good people skills and can handle "issues." That said, I think we'd be naive not to think that SOME of the moves were motivated, in part, by the need to create a buzz. hey, it's a business, and they're job is to sell tickets.

SprungOnSports (Long Island)

Is there a point to the Jets signing TO other than Hard Knocks ratings? They seem pretty set at WR despite Holmes' suspension.

Rich Cimini

  (12:05 PM)

Let's be clear: I think the Jets are a long shot to sign T.O. A source told me this morning this is basically exploratory in nature, much like the JaMarcus Russell situation a month ago. But there's no doubt that the "Knocks" folks are rooting for T.O. in NY. Could you imagine the shows? It would be must-see TV. And I agree, they're set despite Holmes' suspension. And nothing has changed with Braylon Edwards; as I reported a month ago, he's not getting suspended.

27x WS Champion (161 Street and River Ave)

Has the stomach stapling surgery affected Rex's brain power? Can't give a bigger NO THANKS on acquiring T.O. What happened to interest in Laveranues Coles?

Rich Cimini

  (12:07 PM)

Interest in Coles faded when the Jets learned a month ago that Edwards wouldn't be suspended. Like I said, Tannenbaum is doing his due diligence by reaching out to T.O.'s agent. Maybe he has too much time on his hands. He should be reaching out to Revis' agent, trying to get that deal done.

Danny (Manhattan)

Hi Rich - What's the status on contract negotiations with Kyle Wilson? Do you expect him to signed before camp opens?

Rich Cimini

  (12:09 PM)

Things are going slowly, Danny, but that's the trend around the league. Last time I checked, only one first rounder has signed - Dez (I Don't Carry Shoulder Pads) Bryant. Wilson's agent likes to wait things out, waiting to see the deals from those players drafted around him (29th). When you see the 28th and 30th picks sign, you know a Wilson deal will be close. Rookies report Thursday. I'd be surprised if he signs by then. Wouldn't be shocked if he's not signed by Sunday's team reporting date.

Mo and Kita (East Rutherford, we hope! )

Why not take a chance on our boy Terrell? The Jets need to protect themselves for the first quarter of the season without Holmes. Adding our Terrell would be low risk, high reward. We will be there to make sure he doesn't act naughty. Worst case scenario is that the Jets cut him midseason. But that won't happen. He would give the Jets great depth at WR. DO IT! Don't be surprised if becomes the #1 receiver in NY.

Rich Cimini

  (12:10 PM)

Low risk? Have you been paying attention the last 10 years?

Sean (Lexington)

What kind of role will Joe McKnight hold in the offense this season?

Rich Cimini

  (12:12 PM)

Sean, I think the team is hoping he can emerge as the third-down back in time. But I don't think it will happen right away. That's a new gig for him and it takes time to master pass protection and blitz recognition. I think Tomlinson will get first crack at that role. But, from what I saw in minicamp, McKnight can make plays in space, which is what you want from your third-down back. For his sake, he'd better not barf on the field anymore.

JetsFan2010 (Connecticut)

Hey Rich i was wondering if the contract situations are gonna get done any time soon and are the jets seriously gonna sign Terrell Owens?

Rich Cimini

  (12:13 PM)

Nick Mangold and David Harris will not get new contracts this season. As for Darrelle Revis, I could see a "band-aid" contract (sweetening his 2010 pay), but I can't see a full-blown, long-term extension. T.O.? I think it's a long shot. I see him in Cincy.

Scott K (Massapequa )

IF and if the Jets acquire Terrell Owens does Coterchery become a slot receiver and after the four games holmes returns how will they balance the work load?

Rich Cimini

  (12:15 PM)

Scott, I think Cotchery is going to play a lot in the slot, no matter what. He'll be very good in that position. When Holmes is suspended, you'll see Cotchery, Edwards, Smith and Cotchery. Don't forget, TE Dustin keller can be used in a quasi-receiver role. I don't think there's a pressing need to go out and sign another receiver. They went 3-1 last season with Chansi Stuckey as the No. 2.

Joe Lisowski (Rome, New York)

Hey Rich, do you think LT will be a better RB this year for the Jets than Thomas Jones was in previous years?

Rich Cimini

  (12:17 PM)

I don't, Joe. I think, right now, Jones is a better player. Tomlinson catches the ball better than Jones; that's his one edge. So I think you'll see Brian Schottenheimer try to play to his strengths. But as a runner, I'd take Jones.

Joe (Phoenix)

Isn't an uncapped year the perfect time to extend Revis, Mangold and Harris? I think you've said that they could get these deals done with signing bonuses. Won't it be a lot harder to keep all three once there's a new salary cap to deal with?

Rich Cimini

  (12:21 PM)

You make a great point, Joe. There is no cap right now, so this would be the time to get these guys locked up to long-term deals with big bonuses up front. The problem is, there are a ton of rules that make it difficult, but not impossible to do deals. Owners around the league are very worried about writing big checks because of the labor uncertainty, and Woody Johnson is no different. He can do a deal if he wants to, but he chooses not to do a big deal in the traditional sense. That could come back to bite him next year, when half the team is a free agent.

jetdude (new windsor ny)

hi Rich, do you think the jets willink brunell and do you think, clemens willbe onthe opening nights roster, thanks!!

Rich Cimini

  (12:23 PM)

Dude, yes, I think the Jets will sign Mark Brunell by Sunday. And, believe it or not, I think there's a chance that Clemens goes to camp with the team. It would be crowded at QB, but the thought is this: They might be able to trade Clemens later in camp if another team loses a quarterback. Right now, he has no trade value. I'm not saying he's definitely going to camp, but I think it's something they're toying with.

IRA

Mr. T looks under every rock for players. But Rich if even the smallesy=t chance this would happen i think that would blow the lid. I don't think Rex can handle that much,

Rich Cimini

  (12:24 PM)

Even Ira, the enternal Jets optimist, is down on a potential T.O. move. And you know what? He's right.

Andrew (PA)

Mangold is by far the best Center in the league shouldnt the jets be trying harder to make him happy since its harder to find linemen like him????

Rich Cimini

  (12:26 PM)

A lot of scouts would agree with you, Andrew. Mangold probably is the best center. He has a right to be ticked off because, unlike Revis, he's going into the FINAL year of his contract. He's been a good soldier for four years, but his timing stinks. He's greatly affected by the 30% rule, and the Jets are using that as the reason for not negotiating. He's gonna have to wait until next year.

joe (from brooklyn)

Hey rich! i was wondering if you getting any cameos on hard knocks?

Rich Cimini

  (12:27 PM)

Thanks for thinking of me, Joe, but if "Hard Knocks" knows what's good, they'll keep me away from any cameos.

john (putnam)

Rich, why dont the Jets just put a band-aid contract for revis this year and then continue the current one next year?

Rich Cimini

  (12:29 PM)

I think that ultimately could be the resolution, John -- shades of Chris Johnson. But it would cost the Jets a lot more than what it cost the Titans to keep Johnson happy. There's one concern from the Jets: If they give Revis a "raise" in 2010, what do they get in return? An extra year on the contract? A lower salary in 2011 or 2012? There has to be a give-and-take. I don't think the team is going to give away "free" money.

randy (fla)

rich...your thoughts on donovan warren...does he make the team as safety or cornerback??

Rich Cimini

  (12:31 PM)

Randy, I think he's got a good chance. It's a pretty deep secondary, so it'll be tough, but he has versatility in that he can play corner and safety. Nowadays, you need safeties who can line up over a slot receiver. That's because there are so many spread offenses. If Warren can prove he can do that, it'll enhance his value tremendously. And, of course, he'll need to carve a niche on special teams.

Sanpete (Bayside, NY)

Rich,How do you think this current Jet "administration" will handle being a favorite? In the past, as has been well documented, the Jets have struggled mightily with expectations. We know they can talk a good game, but what happens when they can't play the "nobody believes in us, us against the world card"?

Rich Cimini

  (12:34 PM)

You raise a very good point, Sanpete. Rex used the underdog card very well last season, although he kept talking up the Jets as the best team in the league. He has his cake and ate it, too. I'm still not sure how he accomplished that, but he's Rex ... and he has a way with words. But it's well-documented that the Jets always crap out when they face big expectations -- 1999, 2003, 2004, 2007, 2008. How they handle "success" will go a long way to determining how they fare this season.

Shaya (NYC)

Rich, what kind of production do you think we will see out of Mark Sanchez this year? Will he step up and carry this team or will he be a liability for Rex Ryan this year?

Rich Cimini

  (12:37 PM)

Shaya, I don't think he'll be a liability, but I also don't think he'll carry the team, either. They won't put him in that position. They still want to be a run-oriented team while continuing to develop the passing attack. If he throws another 20 INTs, the Jets will be toast. They won't be able to survive that, not against this schedule. They will need Sanchez to throw well enough to help on days the defense isn't at its best. Fact: the jets were 0-6 last season when they allowed more than 20 pts. Can't have that.

Sean (Lexington)

What kind of stats do you think Clowney will put up in the pre-season? I'm thinking 800 yards, 7 TD's.

Rich Cimini

  (12:38 PM)

Funny, Sean. Clowney -- aka Mr. August -- has a way of dominating in the preseason. Who can forget Ratliff to Clowney?

Andrew (PA)

Jenkins made a comment last week about babies...your close to him....it was Rhodes right???

Rich Cimini

  (12:40 PM)

I think he referred to "women" no longer on the team. There's no doubt in my mind he was referring to Rhodes. Jenkins also did an interview on SNY in which he said Rhodes got caught up in "the glitz and glamour" of NY. I think a lot of players would agree with Jenkins, but I'm a little puzzled as to why Jenkins is doing this Kerry bashing now.

Platon (Brooklyn NY)

I would like to know are the Jets creating this buzz about T.O. in order to sell tickets. I'm more concern with replacing Faneca and that kicking game scraes the hell out of me, what are your thoughts

Rich Cimini

  (12:43 PM)

Are you suggesting the Jets are feigning interest in T.O. to sell tickets? Hmmm. The answer is no, but let me add this: I don't think they mind the extra publicity.

Jeff (New York)

Rich, Any idea how many PSLs are left to be sold and whether any games will be blacked out?

Rich Cimini

  (12:44 PM)

Biz VP Matt Higgins was quoted last week as saying there are about 2,500 non-club PSLs left. He claimed there is no chance of a blackout for the first game.

Erik (Queens)

Hey Rich, good to see you with ESPN. I was a consistent reader of your Daily News blog as well. The question I want answered just as well as many Jets fans when it comes down to it, what kind of realistic production do you think we can expect out of Sanchez this year? He barely threw last year, but through his many troubles with picks, he had some flashes of brilliance. Can we see him making 25-30 throws some games? I'm waiting to see what he can do. And one more thing, is Mike DeVito a better player than Marques Douglas, or were the Jets just limiting their spending?

Rich Cimini

  (12:46 PM)

Thanks for the kind words, Erik. When I spoke to Sanchez for the story that is currently posted, he said his goal was under 10 INTs. He didn't mention TD passes. His numbers were 12 and 20 last season. If he reversed that, the Jets would be tickled. I could see something like 18 and 14. They could win with that...and yes I think they think DeVito is better than Douglas. But I also think spending factored into the decision. They get to keep two young players for the price of one Douglas.

JetsFan2010 (Connecticut)

Hey rich i just wanted to know what was going on in special teams, Nick Folk in my opinion is a down grade from Jay Feely so do you think that if he doesn't perform he'll get kicked out and who do you think will replace him?

Rich Cimini

  (12:48 PM)

Based on last season, there's no question that Folk is a downgrade from Feely. The Jets are hoping (praying?) that Folk can rebound, and that last season's epic struggles with Dallas were caused by hip surgery from the previous offseason. Folk believes his mechanics got messed up because of the surgery. Remember, he was a Pro Bowl kicker at one point. Still, it's a big risk for the Jets, who figure to be playing a lot of close games. Wouldn't surprise me if you see Neil Rackers or kris Brown in NY by the opener.

Howard Stern (Manhattan)

Good job Rich! Thanks for coming out. Who do you think will win the vacant spot left by the release of Alan Faneca? Thanks

Rich Cimini

  (12:50 PM)

I didn't think you were interested in football, Howard. I'll say Ducasse over Slauson by a neck.

Peter (Syosset)

Rich, I saw a recent article, that predicted the Jets finish third.... in the AFC East! If that happens, what would be the reprecussions?

Rich Cimini

  (12:50 PM)

In a word, bloodshed.

NEW JERSEY JETS (NOT NY)

Rich, don't you think this whole PSL thing is a disgrace and the JETS are beginnning to believe that now. This is from a team that has sold out that stadium for years and now, all of a sudden they can't sell tickets. I wonder why??? These owners and players make good money off of this game. Do they really need to charge the FAN extra money to go see a game of football. It's ridiculous.

Rich Cimini

  (12:51 PM)

Mr. NJ, you're right, it's ridiculous. It's very difficult to a middle-class family of four to go to a game. It could cost them close to a grand. It's not right, but it's happening all over the league.

Ryan (NY)

That idiot Don Banks on CNNSI has the Jets #1 in his power rankings. I am a Colts fan that lives in NY and have to deal with the annoying Jets fans that think they actually are the best team in NFL. Please tell me how, if possible, someone can say that the Jets are better than the Colts?

Rich Cimini

  (12:53 PM)

Don is one of the most respected writers in our business, but I agree with you on this one: The Jets don't belong No. 1. Like I said yesterday on my blog, I think they should be in the 7-10 range. But don't take it too seriously, Ryan. Pre-season rankings don't mean anything in sports that use rankings (college fball, bball), let alone the NFL.

Sruli (West Hempstead)

Hey, Rich. Love your chats. since 2 years ago when the jets drafted him, i said that gholston should stay at DE, where he was dominant in college. and then the jets screwed up and moved him to a position he obviously cant play. im optimistic about this year with him (although obviously he could let me down completely). what were/are your thoughts on him?

Rich Cimini

  (12:56 PM)

Thanks, Sruli. Remember this about Gholston: he played DE in a 4-3 scheme at Ohio State and often rushed from the wide side. With the Jets, who use some 3-4 slignments, he'll have to go head-up against tackles and guards. I remember the day Gholston was drafted. There were a lot of questions about the riskiness of drafting a player that high and changing his position, but the Jets' brass felt confident Gholston could make the switch. Ouch!

Robert Sheehan (Westminster, MD)

If they keep Clemens as the #3 QB, does that mean Ainge goes to taxi squad and they release O'Connell?

Rich Cimini

  (12:57 PM)

I'll be honest, Robert, I'm not sure how this is going to shake out. I can't see tham going to camp with five QBs, so, yes, I think one will get cut if/when Brunell signs. My guess is that it would be O'Connell. We should know in the coming days.

Dan (Bay Ridge, NY)

Rich, you don't need a crystal ball to know that the PK game has a chance at being a massive weak point. How about Mike Nugent? Former second-round pick, had a solid '07 season, then got hurt in Week 1 of '08, lingered on the injured list and ultimately lost the job to Feeley. Is he somebody the Jets would potentially look at when Folk inevitably craps the bed?

Rich Cimini

  (12:59 PM)

Nugent is a great guy, respected by everyone, but I'd be surprised if they went back to him. Not much length on kickoffs, not the best range on FGs.

Anthony (NYC)

Rich if Sanchez makes huge strides this season & the offense proves to be very efficient, does it likely mean the end for Coach Schottenhemier(a head coach position)?

Rich Cimini

  (1:01 PM)

if the Jets make the playoffs again, I think Brian will land a HC job somewhere. There could be a bunch of openings -- Cleve, Jax, Oak, Chic, Dall, to name a few. I'm sure there's more. Schottenheimer will be a HC someday, just a matter of when and where.

Kevin (Hell's Kitchen)

Rich, the Jets have a brutal schedule the 1st 5 or so games....right out of the box with Ravens and Pats in weeks 1 and 2. They also will be without Holmes for the 1st 4 games. Do you think they could survive a slow start out of the box or would they crumble if it was to happen. Say they start 2-4.....are we in trouble at that point?

Rich Cimini

  (1:03 PM)

I'm glad you mentioned the brutal schedule, Kevin, because most Jets fans -- in their giddiness -- seem to have forgotten about that. It's a tough, tough start, and they will miss Holmes. But they won't crumble at 2-4. Remember, this was a team that lost 7 out of 8 last season, and they still rebounded. It's a mentally tough team...at least I think it is. But, you're right, 2-4 is a possibility if they're not clicking from the outset.

Rich Cimini

  (1:03 PM)

Well, that's it for me, folks. Thanks for checking in. The next time we talk, I'll be in Cortland. Looking forward to it. have a great day!