Here’s a look at some prominent players on the Jets’ roster who may or may not be back with the team in 2010 — and why.
* KERRY RHODES, safety: Though in the middle of the five-year, $33 million contract extension he signed in ’08, a likely goner. Isn’t the physical player Rex Ryan craves at the position.
* THOMAS JONES, running back: One year left on his contract and coming off a second consecutive big-time season (1,402 rushing yards, 14 TDs), but he slowed late in the year, and the emergence of Shonn Greene and return of Leon Washington could make it possible for Jones go. Guess here is that he stays one more year, even though he’s due a $2.8M bonus in March.
* TONY RICHARDSON, fullback: Unrestricted free agent entering his 16th season likely stays another year since he’s still a huge part of the “ground and pound.”
* LITO SHEPPARD, cornerback: Let’s see, due a $10 million roster bonus in March, missed time because of injuries and was benched in title game. Gone.
* LARRY IZZO, linebacker: Overachiever on special teams will likely need surgery on his neck/back area to have a chance to play. Will likely retire.
* KRIS JENKINS, nose tackle: Coming off a knee injury, but is expected back. Imagine this defense with Jenkins in the lineup all season.
* BRAYLON EDWARDS, wide receiver: If no new collective-bargaining agreement is reached, he’ll be an unrestricted free agent the Jets want back, and will tender a one-year offer sheet to retain him for 2010.
* LEON WASHINGTON, running back: Same contractual situation as Edwards, finished his fourth and final year of his deal. He’ll be restricted and likely tendered a one-year deal while team sees how he’s recovered from broken leg.
* KELLEN CLEMENS, quarterback: Same situation as Washington, but no guarantee he’ll come back. Wants to start somewhere, but that ship might have sailed.
* BRAD SMITH, wide receiver: Figures to be brought back on either a one-year tender or a long-term deal.
* JAY FEELY, kicker: Unrestricted free agent who’s not going anywhere. Not only an accurate kicker, but a big part of the team chemistry in the locker room. He’ll re-sign.