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Jets Roundup:Vilma to the Saints, Jenkins Arrives, Is Faneca Next?
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Mike Tannenbaum and company have been an active Gang Green Bunch over the last 24 hours.
As expected, LB Jonathan Vilma has been dealt, going to the New Orleans Saints for a conditional draft pick in 2009. Originally drafted in the first round of the 2004 draft by the Jets, he played 4 seasons in NY, starting 53 out of 55 games. Over his Jets career he racked up 460 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries, 5 forced fumbles and 14 passes defended. Vilma was the first Jets linebacker to top 100 tackles in his first 3 seasons since Kyle Clifton accomplished the feat from 1984-1986. He started the first 7 games of 2007 before ending his season on injured reserve. He became expendable when David Harris stepped in and clearly showed his abilities in the 3-4 system.
Today, another move was announced as the Jets made a trade, acquiring DT Kris Jenkins from the Carolina Panthers for 2 draft picks in 2008, believed to be in the 3rd and 5th rounds. At 6'4" 349, Jenkins should be a perfect fit for the 3-4 Jets program. Over the past 2 seasons, Jenkins started 31 out 32 games. In 2006, Kris was second amongst Panther lineman with 53 tackles, 3.5 sacks and 10 passes defended. He started 15 games each over 4 seasons, and the Panthers were a top 10 defense in 3 of those seasons, 2002, 2003 and 2006.
Continuing an active 24 hours, is the offensive line about to receive a signficant upgrade next? According to www.espn.com, the Jets have agreed to terms with former Pittsburgh Steelers guard Alan Faneca. The deal is a reported 4 years at $32 million, with roughly $23 million of that in guaranteed money. If this deal comes to pass, Alan would be the veteran stabilizing influence on young players Nick Mangold, and D'Brickashaw Ferguson, and should improve an offensive line that was 19th in rushing yards per game last season.
