New York Jets’ Stay or Go Series: Calvin Pace Edition

Dec 15, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; xxNew York Jets outside linebacker

(97) reacts in the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

As you settle in for today’s playoff games, we are starting a new series called the “Stay or Go” series.

But it is going to be a little different. The reason? I want to hear what you think.

Throughout this series, I am going to bring to you some players on the team that are marginal. These are players that aren’t guaranteed roster spots, that there is debate about. We are going to look at the reasons they should “stay”, and the reasons they should “go”. Then, we are going to end it with a poll, where YOU guys decide if the player should stay, or go.

First we are going to talk about CALVIN PACE:

REASONS TO STAY: I am a big fan of Calvin Pace’s 2013 season. So much so, we gave him the Jet Press “Comeback Player of the Year” award.  Calvin, to his credit, posted a huge season.

As you recall, he was released during the off-season, only to be brought back on a one year deal at a reduced salary.  The assumption was that Calvin would be back, primarily as a mentor for young players such as Demario Davis.

That was not how it turned out.  Calvin Pace used the one year contract as motivation, earning his starting role back, and starting all sixteen games.  He proceeded to be a force on the outside, putting up a career high of ten sacks.  He also forced two fumbles, and defended three passes.

Pace was also credited with three quarterback hits, 21 hurries, and 28 “stops”, according to our friends at Pro Football Focus.

Are these the stats of a player that is finished?  I am not so sure.

REASONS TO GO: The biggest argument in favor of not bringing back Calvin Pace is his age.  The ongoing quest of John Idzik and company is to get the Jets younger and faster.  Calvin had a huge year in 2013, this there is no doubt.  However, he is going to be 34 years old.  We all know that he is in the twilight of his career.  Is someone at that age worth a roster spot?

Also, what does keeping him around on the field, do to the development of some of the younger players.  The Jets have a young core of linebackers, led by Demario Davis on the inside.  But what about the outside?  There are guys like Garrett McIntyre waiting for their opportunity to play.  We know from watching guys like Geno Smith that there is no substitute for getting on the field.

Should the Jets let Calvin Pace go, so the younger guys get more playing time?

This is where you call come in.  Please vote in the poll below, and sound off in the comments if you wish.

What should be the fate of Calvin Pace in 2014?

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