A Little Skepticism on the Revis Hamstring “Injury”

July 29, 2012; Cortland, NY, USA; New York Jets defensive back Darrelle Revis (24) walks out to the practice field prior to the start of training camp at SUNY Cortland. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-US PRESSWIRE

So, Darrelle Revis was slowed during practice yesterday. He was cleared to work out during individual drills, but not team drills. The word coming out of camp was that it was “hamstring tightness”, and when asked, Revis said it had nothing to do with making a statement about his contract.

The team advised the reporters that it was a precautionary move related to his hamstring, and it wasn’t the one injured in 2010.

Despite the reports to the contrary, a part of me is very skeptical. I cannot shake the feeling that this was a cover, that Darrelle is making a statement about his contract, much in the way Osi Umenyiora did.

Keep in mind, his not holding out was not all about being good to the Jets. Yes, he said “I just want to be here”. But, remember the clause in his contract. Specifically, the no-holdout clause, which would have allowed the Jets to extend his deal for 3 more years at a modest salary.

He didn’t want that, neither did he want to be fined for each day he missed camp.

THAT is why he didn’t hold out folks.

By coming into camp on time, the Jets cannot use the franchise tag, or the transition tag on him. The Jets will either have to pay him big time next offseason, or he will play out his contract and become a free agent.

The Jets don’t want this, and he knows it. It was a business decision not to come in. Yes, he wanted to be ready for the season, but he also didn’t want to lose money, nor would anyone else.

Not that I blame him for this thought, but let’s call it as it is.

Don’t forget, after reporting to camp, Darrelle still talked about the fact that he is not thrilled about the contract. He was still quoted about how the Jets have to make a decision about whether he is part of the long term future. He stated that he wants to be here, but it is up to the Jets to make that decision now.

Clearly, Revis is here, but he is not happy.

What a way to make a statement, and not lose his money. He comes into camp so he is not fined, and his contract is not extended. He says his hamstring is tight, so he can sit on the side.

I’m not saying this is definitely what happened. He might be as hurt as they say he is, and they were just being cautious.

You have to wonder, though. Stranger things have happened.