CB Antonio Cromartie Free Agency Fits: Jets, Bills, Cardinals
Antonio Cromartie had a bounce back season in 2014, after being cut from the Jets following the 2013 season. Where could he fit best in Free Agency? Below, read a few teams (Bills, Jets, Cardinals) that might be interested in bringing in the veteran.
After being cut from the Jets, Cromartie signed with Arizona Cardinals on a one-year, make-it-or-break-it deals. Not only did Cromartie prove he was worth the risk, he shined throughout the 2014 season, helping the Cardinals to an 11-5 record and securing his fourth Pro Bowl nomination.
Since the season has ended, however, rumors surrounding Cromartie’s future with the team have blossomed. Some say that Cromartie wants to go back to New York, others saying he wants to team back up with Rex Ryan.
New York Jets
Nov 3, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets cornerback Antonio Cromartie (31) celebrates with defensive end Sheldon Richardson (91) after an interception against the New Orleans Saints in the first half during the game at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Cromartie spent four seasons with the Jets, playing for the team from 2010 to 2013 where he performed at a high level under former Ryan. Cromartie also played under the newly hired Jets head coach Todd Bowles in Arizona, where Bowles was the defensive coordinator. Cromartie proved that he is a fantastic fit in Bowles’ system.
Along with this, Croamrtie has made it no secret that he loves New York. In an article posted on the NYPost.com, the corner was quoted saying this when asked about returning to the Jets this offseason:
"My door is always open to returning. Everybody knows I didn’t want to leave. I’m going to keep my door open and see what happens."
Cromartie and the Jets are a match made in heaven. But if the two are unable to work out a reunion, here are two other teams that he would fit nicely with.
Buffalo Bills
Jan 14, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills president Russ Brandon , owner Terry Pagula , head coach Rex Ryan and general manager Doug Whaley after a during a press conference at ADPRO Sports Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
Buffalo? who wants to go to Buffalo?
While there haven’t been many rumors posted about Cromartie taking his talents to Buffalo, a potential deal does make some sense.
Cromarite played under the Bills new head coach while he was with the Jets and thinks very highly of Rex Ryan as a football coach. Here’s an excerpt of his thoughts on Ryan via the New York Post:
"“I think he’s a great head coach. He got guys to believe in him and understand him and know what he wants.”"
A reunion between these two would be far from surprising.
Arizona Cardinals
Oct 5, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Antonio Cromartie (31) before the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY SportsI think there is a good chance Cromartie stays in Arizona, signing another deal to remain with the Cardinals. Last season, Cromartie had a great season playing along side Patrick Peterson and making his first playoff appearance since his first season in New York.
I think there is a good chance Cromartie stays in Arizona, signing another deal to remain with the Cardinals. Last season, Cromartie had a great season playing along side Patrick Peterson and making his first playoff appearance since his first season in New York.
Cromartie’s Arizona teammates liked him and want him to stay. A connection is there, and simply makes sense.
Along with his relationship with Bruce Arians and his teammates, the biggest reason Arizona is an attractive destination for Cromartie is because they’re is built to win now. Unlike the Jets or the Bills, if Cromartie stays in Arizona, he wont have to go through a rebuilding process. Instead, he will have the opportunity to compete for a Super Bowl next season.