Jonathan Vilma Can Walk Away From the Jets, if His Knee is Healthy

The Jets have a pretty long history of failing in the draft (one of my favorite YouTube videos of all time, particularly the mortified "Oh no!!!!" that rings out at the :38 mark). But they got it right with Jonathan Vilma. At least, it was right at the time.

Under Donnie Henderson's 4-3, Vilma excelled -- Rookie of the Year one year, a Pro Bowl alternate the next. Then Eric Mangini came in, switched to a 3-4, and Vilma stopped being productive. And healthy. So, with free agency looming next year and Vilma sure to depart, the Jets are trying to get whatever compensation they can for him now.

They've informed Vilma that he can seek trade opportunities, which would also require his new team to sign him to an extension. Coming off microfracture surgery on his knee, Vilma will begin running full-speed next month, and his ultimate health will determine the market, and what price the Jets could command. I wouldn't be surprised to see him moved for something like a conditional fourth-rounder that can jump to a third based on playing time and a second based on production.

The Saints and Jaguars -- two 4-3 teams -- are considered potential suitors, though I don't expect to get anything done until closer to the draft, as teams will want to see what progress Vilma has made in his recovery. If healthy, and in the right system, this can be an impact move. As for his replacement, David Harris, it looks like the Jets hit on that draft pick.