Jets reportedly exploring possibility of trading Darrelle Revis

One of the main reasons the New York Jets have had such an effective defense since Rex Ryan took over the team has been the play of Darrelle Revis. The former first-round pick has established himself as arguably the best defensive player in the game over the past seven seasons, and certainly the game’s top shutdown corner. Fresh off of ACL surgery, Revis could now be used as trade bait.

According to CBSSports.com, sources close to the situation say that Jets owner Woody Johnson has serious concerns about the team’s ability to sign Revis to a contract extension when his deal expires after the 2013 season (he is “signed” through 2016 but the final three years are voidable). The 27-year-old is set to earn $6 million in 2013, and New York is not exactly in an ideal salary cap situation heading into next season.

Johnson has reportedly made it “very clear” that he would like one of new general manager John Idzik’s first priorities to be exploring how much value the team could get in return for Revis, likely in the form of draft picks.

The torn ACL Revis suffered back in September is likely to be a concern for some teams, but there will be plenty of suitors who will be willing to give up high draft picks for the prospect of securing a cornerstone for their defense. Aside from Revis, the Jets don’t really have the type of superstar players that would yield them the same return that trading the cornerback would. If the team is looking to rebuild after an incredibly disappointing 2012 season (and possibly draft a new quarterback), it makes sense that trading Revis would be a starting point.

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