IF THE SUH FITS FOR JETS
Offer deal to All-Pro ex-Fin DT: source
The Jets are still looking to bolster their roster by reeling in the biggest name left in the free agency pool.
Mike Maccagnan and Todd Bowles have upgraded several areas of need, including running back, center, cornerback and inside linebacker. Now, they’re hoping to beef up their defensive line by acquiring threetime All-Pro tackle Ndamukong Suh.
Gang Green is interested in adding Suh, according to a source, to help fortify a suddenly deficient line. My understanding is that the Jets have indeed made an offer for the veteran defensive tackle.
The 31-year-old Suh was cut by the Dolphins nearly two weeks ago as part of a Miami culture cleansing. The notoriously dirty player has racked up hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines and multiple suspensions over an eightyear career. In 2014, he infamously stepped on Aaron Rodgers’ ankle while the Packers QB was lying defenseless on the ground. Suh was suspended one game for the incident. In 2011, he received a two-game suspension for stomping on the arm of then-Packer Evan Dietrich Smith. As recently as last year, he appeared to grab Ravens backup QB Ryan Mallett by the throat during an on-field confrontation but avoided a fine.
Nevertheless, Suh still appears to have quality play left in him. Besides, beggars can’t be choosers. The Jets will take all the help they can get.
Suh, who visited with the Rams this week, has also drawn interest from the Titans and Saints. He recently cancelled a visit with the Raiders.
The Jets pursued free-agent Daquan Jones earlier in free agency to replace Muhammad Wilkerson before Jones re-signed with the Titans. Suh isn’t a true 3-4 defensive end, but it’s likely that Todd Bowles would move him across the formation to maximize his skillset.
Suh made three All-Pro teams in five seasons with the Lions before inking a monster six-year, $114 million contract with Miami in 2015. He had 15 ½ sacks and remained a menace on the field in three seasons with the Dolphins. However, Dolphins brass evidently grew tired of his presence during this culture change.
The Dolphins were willing to absorb a $22.2 million dead money charge over the next two seasons. The Jets have made an earnest effort to re-make their culture with young, hungry players fully invested in the team-first mantra. Suh’s addition appears to run contrary to that philosophy. Yahoo Sports reported the Jets pursuit of Suh earlier Friday.
NOTE: The Jets will be signing veteran receiver/returner Andre Roberts, according to a source.