Sheldon Richardson is no fool.
The New York Jets defensive lineman knows there are three dominant players on Gang Green's defense that play the same position. In the long run, Richardson understands he'll likely have to move on.
"Big business, bro," Richardson said Wednesday when asked his thought about possibly being moved, via the New York Post. "It happens. That's it. We've got three guys that play the same position. We're all effective. It's a surplus, so I'm the odd man out."
Richardson's name came up during trade discussions, but he wasn't dealt. It wouldn't be a surprise if he was moved this offseason.
The 25-year-old has one more year remaining on his rookie contract that will pay him $8.069 million. With the Jets signing Muhammad Wilkerson to a massive contract (five years, $86 million) and 2015 first-round pick Leonard Williams becoming a force, Richardson understands he's expendable.
"I just want to play, and yeah, get paid my fair share," he said. "You can't do this forever. You want to win Super Bowls and win games and stuff like that. But you also want to make sure you can take care of your family when it's all said and done and it's over with."
Richardson will get paid eventually. He knows it won't likely be by Woody Johnson's team.