New York Jets sign TE Jack Simmons, DT Anthony Harris by Dave Hutchinson/The Star-Ledger Monday May 04, 2009, 6:47 PM http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2009/05/new_york_jets_sign_rookie_pair.html The Jets Monday announced the signing of undrafted rookie free agent tight end Jack Simmons and defensive tackle/long snapper Anthony Harris. Both participated in last weekend's rookie minicamp at Florham Park. Interestingly, the Jets didn't sign linebacker Brian Toal, the New Jersey native and former Boston College star. It's believed the club has concerns about his size (6-foot, 238 pounds), attitude, and injury history. Simmons, a three-year starter at Minnesota, was extremely impressive during the minicamp and got repeated praise from coach Rex Ryan. He showed good hands and Ryan lauded his blocking technique although players weren't in pads. Last season, he caught 34 passes for 331 yards and two TDs and was second-team All Big 10. Harris, a 6-3, 287-pounder out of Western New Mexico, doubles as a long snapper, which enhances his chances of making the team. He was signed by Carolina last season but waived before training camp. The Jets have now signed two long snappers, Harris and rookie tight end Andrew Davie, meaning the veteran long snapper James Dearth could be in trouble. ----- I guess size does matter, more importantly they mentioned ATTITUDE.
You need four years to get a pension, Dearth has been here 9 years. Sorry to see him go, but he's gone. I just hope Rexinious is good enough to stay around for 10-20 years and bring some stability to this team.
Dearth really is one of the best LS in the league. He has been his entire career. Never underestimate the power of an exceptional LS. Mangini tried this with Joel Dressen i believe dressen got cut less than a year after he was drafted. These guys are UDFA's and just because they get invited to TC, doesnt mean they are making the team. I understand why they try and replace Dearth every year. He cant do anything but LS, and if they find a guy who can LS and do something else like be a blocking TE, i understand the want to do that. But year in and year out Dearth always out Long Snaps his competition. I truly believe he is the best in the NFL.
I'm shocked that attitude was one of the knocks against Toal. He comes from a football family and his dad is one of the best HS coaches in the country. Anyway, he'll get more looks but I'm afraid that nagging shoulder injury will be a big problem. On another note, I'm excited about Jack Simmons. We needed a big blocking TE and this guy seems like he fits the bill.
Yeah, I really doubt Dearth is in too much trouble. I know he's making a bit more than what a UDFA would make, but he's really valuable to our ST's.
Long snapper is the most under appreciated postion... until he snaps on over the punter's head. Then everyone knows his name. Nice to have the best. Dearth will stick.
I think the veterans minimum is close to $1 million/year, but I'm not sure. It's well worth it - he's less than 1% of the cap and never fucks up.
He actually has a 10 year/ $10 million contract if I remember correctly. I think he's still under contract for 2 years.
Really? This the NFL (not for long league) if an NFL coach last 5 years that's an eternity. With your handle...you should be aware of the life of an NFL coach. The days of Landry, Shula & Noll are loooong gone. Jeff Fisher is the longest tenured head coach...good coach but no Super Bowl win.....tolerant owner. If Rex wants to be around a long time as the Jets' HC...he needs to bring a Super Bowl win to NY in the next 3 - 5 years with multiple playoffs. Fassell got to the Super Bowl and was unemployed not too long after.
Dearth's contract info: http://www.nyjetscap.com/jamesdearth.html The New York Jets signed TE/LS James Dearth to an 8 year contract on May 24, 2002. The deal included a $150,000 signing bonus. Dearth's base salaries are $300,000(2002), $375,000(2003), $455,000(2004), $540,000(2005), $585,000(2006), $595,000(2007) $730,000(2008), and $845,000(2009). The Jets advanced Dearth $100,000 of his 2009 base salary in March of 2009 reducing his base salary to $745,000.
The risk you run with having a guy who will play downs doubling as your LS means there's a higher chance of injury to that player. The last thing you want is your LS unable to play when it comes down to a crucial kick.
