The New York Jets are at a crossroads with Sheldon Richardson. The defensive end is certainly a threat on the field, but reach off-the-field issues have him at risk of getting released altogether. Richardson was arrested while also facing a four-game suspension for dug use leaving the Jets organization to remain very non-committal on his future with the franchise.
General manager Mike Maccagnan spoke to the media for the first time regarding the issues with the defensive end and stated that he was uncertain what the long-term outlook was for Richardson. New York is trying to rid themselves of personal conduct issues and Richardson is certainly not helping his case. The former first-round draft pick is currently signed through 2016, but could be out of New York sooner rather than later.
"At this point in time, we'll see how it progresses," Maccagnan said, via ESPN.com. "It's not about words right now, it's about actions -- not actions on the football field. It's how he handles himself. We do worry about Sheldon in terms of the decisions he has made off the field. There is a degree of trust that has been broken, but we're supportive."
The Jets have loaded up on defensive talent in the offseason which might make Richardson expendable in the long run. With Muhammad Wilkerson back and Leonard Williams impressing in his first days of camp, the Jets cold release Richardson and wipe their hands clean of the issue. Wilkerson is looking for a contract extension as he enters the final year of his deal. Maccagnan denied that the issues with Richardson would help Wilkerson in any way.
The Jets were hoping to avoid issues at the start of training camp, but instead they continue to pile up. According to Rich Cimini of ESPN New York, rookie wide receiver Devin Smith broke a rib in practice on Friday along with puncturing a lung and will be out for what is predicted to be the next four to six weeks. Smith was a second-round pick for the Jets and expected to make an immediate impact, battling with Jeremy Kerley for the No.3 spot alongside Eric Decker and Brandon Marshall. His injury will help players like TJ Graham, Chris Owusu and Shaquelle Evans make the team.
