New York Jets Potential Free Agent: Israel Idonije

Feb 21, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; New York Jets coach Rex Ryan speaks at a press conference during the 2013 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

There is quite a bit of time between now and when the Jets take the field to open the 2013 NFL season. I am not here to comment on this roster as if it’s finished product, because, truth be told, IT ISN’T. It’s not really close either. There is much work to be done.

What IS noticeable, however, is the fact that the defensive lineup will be very different than last year. With all but approximately 7 starters gone for the defense, things will be different. Rex is going to be asked to do a lot, in order to bring a basically new defensive group back to the top 10.

As such, I have been going over the record of free agents that have ability. There are quite a few, although the majority are the skilled position offensive players. So, I went through the list for someone that could help. The Jets need a pass rusher off the edge. So, I have come up with a name that would work, if the price is correct. No it’s not John Abraham, we can’t go backwards….Who is it then? I’ll tell you…………………

October 23, 2011; London, ENGLAND; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman throws the ball under pressure from Chicago Bears defensive end Isreal Idonije (71) and Lance Briggs (55) during the first quarter in the NFL International Series game at Wembley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

That’s right, it is Israel Idonije, most recently with the Chicago Bears. Israel has stated to the public that he would prefer to be a member of the Bears, but that doesn’t mean that money doesn’t talk, because it does.

Yes, he is 32 years old, but seems to have a great deal left in the tank. His career best sack totals have come over the last three years, with 20.5 sacks recorded during that time. He has established himself as a top flight pass rusher, and despite his age, still plays over 700 snaps. He is pretty durable for a guy on the North side of Alaska this past year. In 2012, Idonije came up just .5 sacks short of his career high of 8 in 2010.

Israel’s PFF grade was outstanding in 2012, with an overall grade of 17.8, which would have dominated every Jets lineman other than Mo Wilkerson that put up a 49.1 rating.  His grades were high across the board, 8.7 on the pass rush, 0.0 in pass coverage, and a 7.4 grade in pass defense.

Think about the presence he would bring, mentoring these younger players.  The only question would be the money.  I do not know what Israel’s salary has been, and obviously if that is too high it would be cost prohibitive.  My point is that if he can be signed at a decent price, the Jets should look into this guy.