In the aftermath of their 2011 meltdown, the Jets now face a series of decisions about what the 2012 team will look like. It is expected that running back LaDainian Tomlinson won’t be back next year. Here are a few of the other big decisions they need to make:
BRIAN SCHOTTENHEIMER
The situation: The offensive coordinator has two years and $3.2 million left on his contract after getting an extension last offseason. The offense finished 25th in the NFL and quarterback Mark Sanchez did not progress in his third year as much as expected. Schottenheimer also clashed with wide receiver Santonio Holmes.
Our call: Schottenheimer has to go. It’s time to see if a new voice helps Sanchez. Schottenheimer is interviewing with the Jaguars for their head-coaching vacancy, but the Jets said they expect him back otherwise.
MARK SANCHEZ
The situation: In his third season, the quarterback threw 26 touchdown passes but also had 18 interceptions. He is due a roster bonus of $2.75 million in March and has two years remaining on his contract.
Our call: Sanchez is not going anywhere. The team needs to see how he fares with a different offensive coordinator. If he stumbles again next year, then a decision needs to be made.
SANTONIO HOLMES
The situation: The Jets signed Holmes to a four-year, $45 million deal in July with $24 million guaranteed. His production was not what the Jets expected – 51 catches, 654 yards, 8 TDs – but the bigger problem is his attitude. He clashed with teammates last week and was benched in Sunday’s game
Our call: Try giving Holmes away on the trade market. If no team is interested, stick with him but strip him of his captaincy. It is too much of a salary cap hit ($7.75 million) to cut him.
PLAXICO BURRESS
The situation: The Jets signed Burress to a one-year deal in the summer. He improved their red zone production but overall did not have a huge impact.
Our call: Let Burress walk. The Jets need to get younger and quicker at receiver.
BART SCOTT
The situation: One of Rex Ryan’s favorite players may need to go after declining this year to the point where his playing time was greatly reduced. The Jets renegotiated with Scott over the summer, guaranteeing his $4.2 million salary in 2012. So they would have to cut him a big check if they dump him.
Our call: Cut him. The Jets have too much money tied up in a part-time player. Scott was barely on the field on passing downs this season.
SIONE POUHA
The situation: The big nose tackle is a free agent. He might be the most underrated player on the Jets. He did a great job stuffing the middle for the Jets this season.
Our call: Re-sign him. Rookie Kenrick Ellis is not ready. The Jets need to keep Pouha in the middle of their defense and in their locker room, where he is a leader.
JIM LEONHARD
The situation: Another of Rex Ryan’s favorite players is a free agent. After suffering leg injuries the last two years, there is a question of whether the Jets should bring him back. He is respected in the locker room.
Our call: Bring him back for a short-term deal. Leonhard is like a coach on the field for the Jets. They need to upgrade at safety, but I would keep Leonhard and look to improve the other safety spot.