LB Adalius Thomas said he'd be interested in joining the Jets, but no deal would happen before Week 1.
LB Adalius Thomas said Monday that he would be interested in joining the Jets, but that no deal will happen between him and the team before Week 1.
SI‘s Peter King reported earlier this week that the 33-year-old had no interest in signing with the Jets. On Monday, Thomas responded.
“That is ridiculous,” he said. “If they called me, I’d definitely call them back. All I know is [GM] Mike Tannanbaum called my agent [Bus Cook] a couple of days ago and they’re interested in maybe doing something with me — but not until after the first game of the season.”
The reason for the timing is that if a veteran player is signed before Week 1 they are entitled to an entire season’s salary. After Week 1, however, team’s only need to pay the guaranteed money or on a game-by-game basis.
Thomas and Jets coach Rex Ryan, who Thomas played under for 6 seasons in Baltimore, reportedly spoke over the weekend. The 2-time Pro Bowler signed with New England after an All-Pro season with the Ravens in 2006, but clashed with Bill Belichick and recored a mediocre two forced fumbles and 14.5 sacks in 3 seasons. He was released by the Patriots in April.
“I don’t know if teams are scared off about me now or if I’ve been blackballed,” Thomas said. “I do think there’re teams out there I’d be a good fit for — the Jets especially.”
The Jets will welcome Ryan and Thomas’ former team to the Meadowlands for a Monday night showdown in Week 1.