NFL Free Agency: Ravens early favorites to sign Eric Decker
NFL free agency remains a buzz with Eric Decker being released
After a week of open trade talks, the New York Jets continue to dismantle their roster with the release of veteran wide receiver Eric Decker.
The move opens move than $7 million in cap space for the Jets, who truly appear to be tanking their 2017 season.
Jets owner Woody Johnson thanked Decker for his years of service with New York and wished him the best as he continues his career.
"“I want to thank Eric Decker for his contributions to the New York Jets over the past three seasons. While with us, he was a competitive, productive, and dependable receiver who represented the team well both on and off the field. On behalf of the organization, I wish him the best as he continues his career.”"
Where Decker continues his career is far from certain, but early speculation connects the 30-year-old to the Baltimore Ravens.
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This news comes just hours after Baltimore signed former Chiefs starter Jeremy Maclin to a two-year deal.
Decker could add another big veteran target for Joe Flacco, who currently has Maclin, Mike Wallace, and Breshad Perriman as his primary targets.
Despite not having the easiest salary cap to manage, the Ravens could manipulate any potential contract in a way that offers more bonuses than guaranteed salary.
Buffalo and Philadelphia were also interested in Maclin, which opens a door for Decker down the road. Philadelphia was more interested in Maclin because of his past ties to the organization, while Buffalo needs a veteran such as Decker desperately.
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If the Bills can work around Decker’s salary demands, which held them up from signing Maclin, a potential marriage could work. Carolina could be another team keeping tabs on Decker as mandatory minicamps begin this week.
Playing just three games for the Jets in 2017 Decker caught two touchdowns on 21 targets. He underwent season-ending surgery for a torn rotator cuff, and also had a procedure on his hip for a torn labrum.