New York Jets Cut Nick Mangold, Clear Cap Space
New York will replace Nick Mangold with an in-house youngster
After eleven years as the New York Jets center Nick Mangold is looking for a new job.
The Jets veteran announced in a statement on Twitter that the team planned to release him prior to the start of the new league year, making him a free agent for the first time in his career.
Despite some early rumors the 33-year-old center will not retire.
Mangold leaves zero dead cap for New York as he exits in the final year of a seven-year extension signed in 2010 worth over $54 million.
By releasing Mangold the Jets cleared over $9 million in cap space, something they have little of.
In his farewell statement, Mangold thanked the fans of New York for their 11 years of love and support through some rough seasons.
"“As will be announced by the team shortly, my time as a New York Jet has come to an end. While this is a sad day to leave so many great coaches, teammates and executives, I look forward to seeing what the future holds for me. My family and I will always be grateful to Mr. Johnson and the entire organization for making me a Jet. I truly want to thank the fans for their amazing support over the past 11 years. It meant a lot to see all the #74 jerseys in the crowd every Sunday. Thank you for a fantastic 11 years!”"
Wesley Johnson is expected to start at center this year for New York, with an unknown quarterback lining up behind him.
Mangold will have his suitors in free agency and the opportunity to start once again. Cleveland may want a veteran in the middle of their line after losing Alex Mack in free agency last offseason.
Across the state, Cincinnati will need a center as well. Both the Browns and Bengals make sense for Mangold, who played his collegiate ball at Ohio State.