In with Brandon Marshall, out with Percy Harvin.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Friday that the New York Jets are expected to release Harvin, their playmaking wideout, after sending a fifth-round pick to the Chicago Bears on Friday for the 30-year-old Marshall.
The move comes as no surprise with Harvin set to make $10.5 million this season. Gang Green is already on the hook to pay $7.5 million to Marshall with another $5 million going to fellow wide receiver Eric Decker.
The thought of Marshall, Decker and Harvin in Chan Gailey's offense was intriguing, but the Jets can use that added cap space to address their frail secondary while prowling around for edge-rushing help.
Harvin is sure to find work elsewhere, but not at his current cost. Despite concerns over his ill effect on a locker room, Harvin remains an attractive target on the open market because of his rare playmaking ability.
One potential target: The Patriots. With pass-catching runner Shane Vereen potentially out the door, New England could do worse than bolstering their attack with the former Vikings and Seahawks star. Besides, coach Bill Belichick has nursed an open fascination with Harvin for years.
As for the Jets, if Marshall stays healthy, he looms as an every-down upgrade over Harvin for an offense that finally should be fun to watch in 2015.
The latest Around The NFL Podcast breaks down the Brandon Marshall trade and plays another game of "Go Get My Lunch." Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.
