Sports

NFL Rumors: Jets have interest in Marshall; Dansby flying to Miami

With the NFL’s free agency period set to begin at midnight, here’s what some people are saying about players who could interest the Jets or Giants.

Despite putting a first- and third-round tender on WR Braylon Edwards, ESPN.com reports the Jets could pursue Broncos WR Brandon Marshall, given a first-round tender by Denver.

“The Jets have re-emerged as a possibility in the buzz we’ve heard on Thursday,” the report says. “There’s still a need for a legit No. 1 WR, and Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum is not opposed to pulling off big deals.”

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Cardinals safety Antwan Rolle had a big game at Giants Stadium last year, and could call the New Meadowlands Stadium home, at around $8 million a season. Rolle, due a $4 million roster bonus and an $8.1 million salary for 2010, was released Thursday.

SCHWARTZ ON ROLLE

He could be re-signed by Arizona, or unhappy Jets safety Kerry Rhodes could take his place. (from SNY’s Adam Schein).

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Another possible Giants target, Cardinals LB Karlos Dansby, is flying to Miami tonight, perhaps to sign with the Dolphins immediately after the free-agency period starts.

The National Football Post reports, “That would be a convenient trip with the Miami Dolphins long rumored to be one of the leading candidates for Dansby’s services. … Dansby fits what the Dolphins need and Miami general manager Jeff Ireland pretty much summed that up last week at the scouting combine in Indianapolis without using Dansby’s name.”

LB Gary Brackett is talking to the Colts about a new contract, but the former Rutgers player could interest the Giants if they miss out on Dansby.

Lions LB Larry Foote is another player at the position soon to be available.

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The Jets could add to their secondary with either Chargers CB Antonio Cromartie (NFL Network called the Jets the most likely suitor), or Raiders CB Nmadi Asomugha (Oakland has tendered a contract to another player that could clear the way for a trade).

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RBs Chester Taylor has been mentioned for the Giants, but their backfield seems overcrowded with Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw.

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DE Julius Peppers turned down $14 million to remain with the Panthers.