Bart Scott was the first big-ticket signing of the Rex Ryan Era with the Jets. Three years later, the inside linebacker may be on his way out.
The Jets are exploring trading Scott, and have asked him which teams he would prefer to be traded to, according to his agent, Harold C. Lewis.
Lewis recently met with Jets management at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. Lewis said he expressed Scott’s frustration with the way the 2011 season went but never asked for a trade, nor was he granted permission to seek a trade, as has been reported.
“Bart loves being a Jet,” Lewis said. “But a lot of guys gave back a lot of money last year — a lot of money, millions of dollars. That money was supposed to be used to get players to improve the team to win the Super Bowl. Anything other than winning the Super Bowl is unacceptable.”
Scott restructured his contract last summer to free up salary-cap space for the Jets as they pursued cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha and other free agents. He reduced his base salary by $1 million in 2011 and $1.4 million in 2012. In return, his 2012 salary of $4.2 million was guaranteed in addition to his 2011 salary. His salary-cap number is $5.95 million this season.
That guaranteed money makes it unlikely the Jets would just cut Scott. It also will make it difficult for them to find a trade partner.
The Jets signed Scott to a six-year, $48 million contract in 2009 shortly after Ryan became head coach. Scott had played for Ryan in Baltimore. The 31-year-old has three years and $22.6 million left on his deal.
Scott grew increasingly frustrated during the Jets’ 8-8 season in 2011. He saw his playing time diminish as he came off the field on passing downs.
Lewis said Scott would love to work things out with the Jets.
“Does he want to be a Jet?” Lewis asked. “Yes, nothing makes him happier other than winning. He’s made his money. At this point, it’s about winning a Super Bowl for Bart.”