Grab your tissue boxes Jets fans, this isn’t going to be fun. Following a disappointing 2016 campaign, the New York Jets broke hearts when they announced the release of linebacker David Harris and impending departure of wide receiver Eric Decker on June 6th. It was a move apparently made by team owner Woody Johnson.
Drafted by the Jets in ’07, Harris spent his first ten seasons in New York and racked up 710 total tackles and 35.5 sacks. He leaves the Jets as the franchise’s second-leading tackler.
Harris is known as a class-act and was respected by his teammates, which made this even more frustrating for fans.
Harris’ agents, Brian Mackler and Jim Ivler, did not hold back when releasing a statement to ESPN.
“Very disappointing in the timing of this event and the decision. The Jets could have done this prior to free agency instead of waiting three months, especially for a player who has exhibited nothing but loyalty and class for 10 years.”
The Jets owed him $6.5 million for next season and that’s what led to his release, according to a statement Jets Head Coach Todd Bowles gave to ESPN.
“It was an organizational decision. They were talking about a pay reduction, and they didn’t come to an agreement — we didn’t come to an agreement, and it eventually led to this.”
Along with Harris’ release, the Jets announced just hours later their plan to release WR Eric Decker if they could not move him via trade.
Decker spent his last three seasons with the Jets, including a forgettable one last season. He played in the first three games before partially tearing his rotator cuff, which led to season-ending surgery. He had an incredible 2015 campaign that Jets fans will remember, posting 80 receptions for 1,027 yards with 12 TDs.
Decker took to Twitter to address his fans after the news broke.
Thank you @nyjets for the opportunity the last 3 years! I truly made some great memories and friendships that will last forever!
— Eric Decker (@EricDecker87) June 7, 2017
To all the diehard fans-I wish we would of accomplished more for you but I sincerely appreciate the support through all the ups and downs!
— Eric Decker (@EricDecker87) June 7, 2017
The Jets finished 5-11 last season, finishing dead last in the AFC East and 30th in scoring across the league.
Maybe Jets fans were expecting their team to embrace the tank, but none were expecting it like this. Maybe it’s time you switch out that Jets jersey for a Giants one.
