The New York Jets made the tough decision to release center Nick Mangold. Was this the right move?
A staple of theNew York Jetsoffensive line was released as the team parted ways with centerNick Mangold. The team is fully rebuilding its offensive line after releasing tacklesBreno GiacominiandRyan Cladyearlier this off-season.
Mangold was a first round selection for the Jets in 2006 and went on to start in 164 games while earning Pro Bowl honors in seven of his 11 seasons. Mangold wasn’t just one of the best centers in Jets history, but a case could be made that he was the best center over the past decade.
Mangold was without question a fan favorite and had this to say about his release on twitter.
— Nick Mangold (@nickmangold)February 25, 2017
By cutting the two-time All-Pro, the team saved just over $9 Million in cap space and will likely fill the position with 27-year-oldWesley Johnson. 2017 was an injury plagued season for the Mangold, as Johnson filled in for 8 starts.
With the Jets only set at both guard positions for the time being, it will be interesting to see if the coaching staff truly believes Johnson can be the starting center in the long-run. However, he could be a stop gap option while the team develops another center or most likely being that he fills a hole as a starter.
Since 1998, the New York Jets have had two starting centers inKevin Mawaeand Mangold. Imagine if they could draft quarterbacks like they could draft centers. Now with the Mangold cut the Jets have $26.6 Million in cap space, but more cuts are expected. It’s not if the Jets will make cuts, but which veterans.
Next: 5 Reasons to Keep Sheldon Richardson
Considering the Jets are in the middle of an overhaul, they’ll take a starting player where they can get one. team has to make a choice on veterans over the age of thirty likeDarrelle Revis,David Harris, andBrandon Marshall. Not to mention they could move on fromSheldon Richardsonif the team can find a viable trade partner.
One thing is clear in New York, the rebuild has begun.
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