The Jets dealt away the best cornerback in football a year ago, but they may add one of the top players at the position this year.
The team is interested in Titans free agent cornerback Alterraun Verner, according to a source. The team reached out to express interest in the 25-year-old Saturday, the first day teams could talk to free agents. No contracts can be signed until Tuesday at 4 p.m.
Verner and the Patriots Aqib Talib are the top cornerbacks on the market. Verner could command nearly $10 million a year, a price tag that may scare the Jets off. But cornerbacks are a premium position in coach Rex Ryan’s defense.
The Jets are expected to release veteran cornerback Antonio Cromartie soon to avoid paying a $5 million roster bonus. Cromartie has a cap hit of nearly $15 million this year. It is possible the Jets could bring Cromartie back at a reduced rate.
At this early stage of free agency, the Jets are likely keeping all of their options open, which extends to the offensive side of the ball, as the team also is interested in Lions free agent tight end Brandon Pettigrew, according to a source.
Verner had five interceptions for the Titans last season and had one of his best games against the Jets, intercepting quarterback Geno Smith twice. Pro Football Focus has ranked him as a top 25 cornerback in all four of his seasons. He finished second in the league in passes defensed in 2013 and held opponents to a 55.8 passer rating.
ESPN reported the Vikings also are interested in Verner, who figures to be in demand.
The Jets struggled in the secondary last year. Cromartie had a down season, struggling with a hip injury, and first-round pick Dee Milliner had a rough rookie season, though he finished strong.
Milliner’s arrival came after the Jets traded Darrelle Revis last April to the Buccaneers, after being unwilling to pay him the $16 million per year he wanted.
Cromartie turns 30 next month. The Jets must decide whether 2013 was an aberration because of his hip, or if his skills are declining. The interest in Verner shows the Jets are exploring other options.