The Jets were very busy and ultra aggressive early on in the NFL free agency period. Yesterday, Feb. 29th, they acquired former pro-bowl DT Kris Jenkins from the Carolina Panthers for a 3rd and 5th round pick in the 2008 draft. Jenkins is a whopping 6-4 and 335 pounds which is exactly what the Jets 3-4 defense was missing in the previous 2 seasons. He should make for a great fit in the middle freeing up the linebackers to make plays. The Jets also extended Sione Pouha's contract for another 3 seasons after he came on strong in the 2nd half of last season.

The Jets came to terms with Jenkins on a new five-year contract worth $35 million, including $20 million in guaranteed money. “Kris is a productive player who is stout at the point of attack and has the ability to rush the passer,” Jets coach Eric Mangini said. “We are looking forward to adding him to our defense.” These moves certainly make 5 year vet and disappointing 4th overall pick Dwayne Robertson look like a goner. 

The other big move of the day on the defensive side of the ball was the trade of 4 year vet Jonathan Vilma to the New Orleans saints. Vilma was traded yesterday for a 4th round pick in 2008 which could turn into as high as a 2nd round pick in 2009 depending on how well he plays.

Vilma, the 13 overall pick in the 2004 draft missed the final 9 games of last season with a knee injury. His production has slipped dramatically since the arrival of Manigini and his 3-4 system. Prior to Mangini Vilma was considered one of the premier young playmakers in the league. He was the rookie defensive player of the year and a pro-bowler who lead the team in tackles. After he was injured last season the rookie David Harris stepped in and looked like natural fit in the scheme which ultimately made Vilma expendable. Oh how the mighty have fallen - the Saints made out on this deal - they got themselves a dominating force on defense for the next bunch of years.

On the offensive side of the ball the Jets made strides in their attempt to sign 7 time pro-bowl guard Alan Faneca from the Pittsburgh Steelers. He would replace the void left when Pete Kendall was released during training camp. Adrien Clarke, Kendall's so called replacement has already been released. It is being reported that the Jets are being very aggressive in these negotiations and it is all but official.

All in all a very busy day by the Jets. They aren't done by a long shot, especially with Robertson still on the roster, but they are moving towards becoming the team that Mangini needs to run his system.