Coffee with the New York Jets: D’Brickashaw Ferguson retires

The New York Jets just got news of a shocking retirement and are hoping it frees up some more salary cap space to bring back their bearded wonder at quarterback.

Nothing beats having a delicious cup of coffee as you read the latest news, opinions and analysis from across the internet on the Jets. Whether it’s on the retirement of D’Brickashaw Ferguson or what position the Jets will go in the upcoming 2016 NFL Draft with their first round overall draft pick, enjoy some of the best reading material from the top sources on the internet.

The Jets are in draft mode at this point in time as there is no doubt they will more than likely make a strategic choice using their first round overall pick. It will be a tough decision to make whether to go linebacker, offensive lineman or even cornerback but the Jets will more than likely stick with drafting the best player available for their defense, especially one that upgrades their overall pass rush.

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Nov 22, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) gets a quarterback sack on a play during the third quarter as New York Jets tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson (60) defends the rush at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Jets’ quiet Ironman, walks away on his terms by Rich Cimini (ESPN)

"It’s good to see Ferguson leave with his health intact, as there have been too many premature retirements in Jets’ history. and walked away at 29 and 32, respectively, because of post-concussion syndrome. Al Toon Wayne Chrebet"

Ferguson has not only earned the respect of his peers but also legions of Jets fans across the world. He worked hard in everything he did and was a role model on and off the field. With over a decade of playing in the NFL, it’s good to see him leave on his own terms and not be forced out due to a decline in play or his his hefty salary. It will be interesting to see how the Jets handle the void he leaves behind on their offensive line but at the end of the day, Ferguson will be missed for his play and of course, being the class act he always was. His retirement will free up about $9M in salary cap relief and possibly be used to add more money to bring back quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick.

History says Jets can find gem with 20th pick in draft by Rich Cimini (ESPN)

"That location in the first round apparently isn’t a sweet spot for outside linebackers and offensive tackles, two of the Jets’ primary needs. In recent drafts, wide receiver has been a popular choice; it would be a stunner if the Jets continue that trend."

In the grand scheme of things, the Jets might consider using their No. 20 overall pick on the best offensive tackle available, especially considering Ferguson’s retirement. If the Jets want to fill one of the biggest needs on the team however, they would go with the same mentality but on an outside linebacker. Regardless, general manager Mike Maccagnan will have a very tough decision to make once the Jets are on the clock come draft day.

Jets’ 2016 Preseason: Jags, ‘Skins, Giants, Eagles by Randy Lange (NewYorkJets.com)

"The Jets will open the second preseason of the era against the Jaguars (who signed Ivory as an unrestricted free agent in March) on the weekend of Aug. 11-15. Next will be a road trip to play at Washington, then the annual summer tilt against the Giants — Jets’ home game this year — and the annual preseason finale against the Eagles, this time at “the Linc” in South Philly. Todd Bowles"

Excitement is throughout the air in April not only for the upcoming draft but for the recent release of the preseason schedule for all teams across the NFL. The official regular season schedule usually comes out the week of the draft and should give a good glimpse as to how next season will shape up with against a much tougher slate of opponents. Out of all the preseason games, one that hits the hearts of many in the big apple is the “Snoopy Bowl” between the Jets and New York Giants. It’s always a great game with an actual trophy of Snoopy awarded to the victorious team, including a ton of trash talk thereafter.

NFL Draft 2016: Why CB Mackensie Alexander could be ideal fit for Jets’ defense by Darryl Slater (NJ.com)

"Alexander excels in man coverage — exactly what the Jets love to play behind their blitz-heavy scheme. His movement skills make him a perfect corner to match up with the shifty receivers from their division rival, the New England Patriots."

More jets: Trading Muhammad Wilkerson to Bears makes sense

With a starting spot up for grabs alongside cornerback Darrelle Revis, the Jets might want to draft another quality player at the position to bolster their defensive secondary. With Antonio Cromartie released this offseason, players will be competing for a starting spot this training camp. Cornerback Mackensie Alexander would be a smart defensive choice but make no mistake about it, linebacker is technically a higher priority over cornerback at this point in time. While they should draft another cornerback in the middle rounds of this year’s draft, it would be surprising for the Jets to go this route using their first round draft pick.

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