Corey Davis might not actually want to return to the NY Jets

The NY Jets released wide receiver Corey Davis from the reserve/retired list last week after the six-year veteran officially applied for reinstatement to the league following his brief one-year retirement.

The Jets have kept the door open for Davis to potentially return, with rumors swirling over the last few months that he would eventually re-join the team. And while that may still be a possibility, it's far from a guarantee.

The Jets released Davis to allow him an opportunity to pursue other options, including a return to the Jets at a reduced price. Davis, however, is expected to explore his market, and his preference may not be a return to Florham Park.

ESPN's Rich Cimini reported on Sunday that Davis "prefers a team closer to his home in Nashville, Tennessee." The sense is that he wants to be closer to his family, and there also may be better opportunities available for him.

Corey Davis may be unlikely to re-sign with the NY Jets

The Athletic's Zack Rosenblatt also speculated that the presence of Allen Lazard on the Jets' roster could dissuade Davis from returning. Lazard and Davis essentially occupy the same role in the Jets' offense, making it unlikely the team would want to roster both players at the same time.

At the very least, Davis might not want to return to the Jets unless his role in the offense is set in stone. The Jets are exploring the idea of trading Lazard, but it's going to be difficult to find a team to take on his contract.

The Jets undoubtedly could use the wide receiver help. The team continues to explore their options in the free-agent market, with former Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams coming in for a visit on Monday.

They've also been connected to the likes of Tyler Boyd and Aaron Rodgers favorites, Odell Beckham Jr. and Marquez Valdes-Scantling. Davis, however, has familiarity with the Jets' coaching staff and players and is highly regarded in the locker room. His return would be welcomed with open arms.

The Jets may want Davis back, but it's unclear at this time if the feeling is mutual. Perhaps if Davis's market doesn't develop in the way that he hoped he could reconsider a return to the Jets.

For now, however, don't expect the Jets to re-sign Corey Davis in the near future.