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Jets News: Dee Milliner, Sheldon Richardson Option Decisions

By Kenneth Teape

Oct 18, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson (91) warms up prior to the game against the Washington Redskins at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 18, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson (91) warms up prior to the game against the Washington Redskins at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Jets News: The Jets have made decisions on the options of their 2013 first round draft picks, as Dee Milliner had his declined and Sheldon Richardson had his picked up.

Recent New York Jets news won’t have an impact on the 2016 season, but instead the 2017 campaign. The Jets made their decision on the 2017 options for first round draft picks from the 2013, which the Jets have two players; cornerbcak Dee Milliner and defensive lineman Sheldon Richardson.

Milliner, who was selected ninth overall that season and expected to be the heir apparent to Darrelle Revis, has been a colossal bust. He has been hampered by a number of injuries, playing in only 21 games in three seasons. Even when he has been on the field he has not been effective, as Milliner has come nowhere near the billing of a top-10 pick.

As a result, the Jets have declined Milliner’s fifth year option according to ESPN New York’s Rich Cimini. Despite all his shortcomings thus far, Milliner has a chance to carve out a real role on the Jets’ defense this season. With Antonio Cromartie being released, and no veteran being brought in to replace him, Milliner has a shot to start opposite of Revis. He will compete with Buster Skrine and Marcus Williams for a role defensively.

Milliner’s option would have been worth $11.9 million for 2017, so it was a no brainer declining it as he has done nothing to justifying earning that much money. If he stays healthy and performs this season, the Jets could try and work out a deal as he is set to become a free agent after this season. At only 24 years old, Milliner still has a chance to make something of his NFL career.

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As for Richardson, the Jets have decided to pick up his 2017 option, which is worth $8 million. As much of a no-brainer Milliner’s option being declined was, Richardson’s was a no-brainer to be accepted. Richardson has lived up the billing of the 13th overall pick, and has earned the option on the field.

Richardson was named Defensive Rookie of the Year, and has 16.5 career sacks. His versatility on the defensive line is outstanding, and is one of the most talented defensive lineman in the NFL. But, he comes with some off the field baggage that could impact his future.

Richardson was suspended the first round games of the 2015 season for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy, and could be facing yet another suspension. He was arrested last July and pleaded guilty to resisting arrest, which could be something the NFL punishes him for under their personal conduct policy. According to Cimini, Richardson’s case is still under review.

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The Jets are hoping that nothing comes of the arrest, as the Jets need all hands on deck along the defensive line with Damon Harrison leaving as a free agent this offseason.

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