The New York Jets are in a hurry to make adjustments to their salary cap space. Currently sitting almost $20 million over the NFL salary cap, they need to make decisions prior to the March 12 deadline. However, while in a rush to make cuts, the team is in no rush to make a decision on cornerback Darrelle Revis. While tension has been high between the two parties and trade rumors have been flying, a source tells the New York Times, the team is not looking to rush into any decision.
The Jets have yet to confirm any sort of trade with Revis is in the works, but they also have yet to deny any sort of trade is happening. Revis has expressed disappointment in the team's commitment to him and tension has grown between him and the team. However, no one is making a decision anytime soon on a possible solution.
Revis is currently seeking a new contract, believing he is underpaid. The highest cornerback contract in the league is in the $15 million range and Revis is currently earning $6 million this upcoming season. The Jets can certainly not afford to pay him a new contract now, but could in the future.
Revis is coming off a season where he suffered an ACL and forced to sit out almost the entire year. He has yet to prove he is healthy, which could hinder his ability for a new contract. If the Jets are indeed willing to wait on a trade, they could end up getting a stronger Revis when he is fully recovered.
The Jets are being forced to hold off on a trade for Revis because the marker value for him is not very high. New York wants a lot in return for the cornerback and no other team is taking a chance on him. No team is looking to shell out a lot of money on a player coming off of ACL surgery. The Jets are looking for draft picks, along with money, but an unhealthy Revis is not going to get them anything in the first round.
Revis' history proves he will hold out if the Jets are unwilling to pay him. He has held out twice before while waiting for a new contract. If he comes back this season healthy, his value will rise and could get the Jets something for the 2014 season. He is currently one of the best players on their roster, so the decision made by the team needs to be the absolute right one.