File Under: ESPN, Thomas Jones, Troy Aikman, Mark Schlereth, biceps
06/06 — Just because ESPN says it doesn't make it so. But the sports network on Tuesday asked two estimable NFL talking heads what the best off-season move was, and they independently agreed that it was the Jets' trade with the Bears for RB Thomas Jones.
"For me, it's Thomas Jones," said Mark Schlereth, the old Broncos guard who probably would've enjoyed zone-blocking for Jones. "The Jets implemented a three-back system last year, [which] just did not work for them. Thomas Jones solidifies that — he can carry the load, he can catch the ball out of the backfield, he's going to take a ton of pressure off of Chad Pennington.
"To me, that was the best move. Look, they got him basically for nothing."
Troy Aikman, the ex-Cowboys quarterback, concurred that Jones is "an exceptional player, probably an underappreciated player by a lot of people around the league [although] certainly was not that in Chicago — he had a great year last year for 'em. I think he's going to do great things for the Jets this year."
Jones' exceptional biceps, exposed by his rolled-up jersey sleeves, will be on display again, at least for reporters, at the OTA practices Thursday and Friday, so be prepared, Green & White fans, for more stories on newyorkjets.com as well as in your other favorite media outlets in the coming days.
Andre Johnson Said:
Tue, June 19, 2007 - 3:04pm EDT"Getting Jones was great but it allows the Jets to use Washington in several different ways. I think people forget that Washington was the premiere back at FSU and he will be the Jets homerun threat out of the backfield. Jones job is to get favourable 2nd and 3rd downs situations for Chad. "
Harold Said:
Fri, June 22, 2007 - 11:08am EDT"Get Culpepper!!!!!!!!!Please!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Alan Levin Said:
Thu, June 28, 2007 - 2:25pm EDT"Acquiring Thomas Jones was not only the best move of the offseason, it was absolute steal by Mike Tannenbaum! Obtaining a talent of Jone's caliber for a mere swap of 2nd round picks is highway robbery. Tannenbaum is really making a name for himself. "
Ira Said:
Wed, June 6, 2007 - 4:31pm EDT"This was the best off -season move. It was the best trade the Jets ever made for 1 player. Mawae and Martin were both FA p/u's The Jones trade. will give the Jets a 1200-1400 yd back. Add in Washington and you might have the best combo in the league. Chad's game goes to another level having Jones."