New York Jets: Stay or Go, Willie Colon Edition

Oct 5, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; New York Jets tackle

(68) and guard

(66) and wide receiver

(17) line up during the fourth quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

It is time to continue our look at some of the Jets that are listed to become free agents, in the series that we call, “Stay or Go”.

Over the last several days, we have been looking at some of the decisions that need to be made with players on the Jets roster. We have looked at guys like David Harris, Kyle Wilson, and most recently, Bilal Powell.

Tonight, we look at a guy on the offensive line. The Jets brought him in for his attitude, which mixed right in with the Rex Ryan brand of football. However, should he be brought back under Todd Bowles? His name is Willie Colon.

Let’s look at the pros and cons.

Next: The Financials

Nov 24, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; New York Jets guard Willie Colon (66) against the Buffalo Bills at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

On this one, we are going to start with the financials. Willie Colon doesn’t make a lot of money. Last year, Colon was a $2 million cap hit. Only $250,000 was guaranteed, the rest Willie had to earn in base salary and bonuses. Colon didn’t have the greatest season, so he wouldn’t garner a big salary.

There is a lot to be said for continuity on the offensive line. The Jets will be developing a young quarterback, either Geno Smith or somebody new. Having an offensive line together from year to year doesn’t hurt. Even if Colon had a bad year, he still would be part of the chemistry with the guys around him.

This could be an argument to keep Colon around for one more year.

Next: The Durability

Nov 2, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; New York Jets guard Willie Colon (66) and center

(74) on the line of scrimmage during the second half against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Another point that goes in Colon’s favor is his durability. Some may not view this as a positive based on performance, but Willie Colon has been out there for every game as a Jet. 32 games, 32 Willie Colon starts. Other than his rookie year, and the year 2011, Willie Colon has not played in less than 11 games.

Again, when you are talking about a position that needs continuity, Willie Colon has provided that consistent ability to be out there.

Next: The Down Side

Dec 7, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) is sacked by Minnesota Vikings safety

(22) and defensive end

(96) during the first quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Then, we get to the performance, and we have a problem. Looking at Pro Football Focus, it’s hard to find justification to keep Willie Colon around.

Colon’s grade in pass blocking was still a positive one at 6.9, it was down from his 2014 grade of 11.6. Colon was absolutely terrible in the run blocking game, with a grade of -16.3. He did lead the league in one category, penalties. Colon was flagged a whopping 14 times, which is nearly one per game.

Despite the need for continuity, the Jets can’t keep this guy around. It’s time to get younger at guard, and say goodbye to Willie Colon.

Next: Bleacher Report Mark Draft