CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie picks Giants over Jets
Denver Broncos' Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie answers questions during Super Bowl Media Day. Credit: Newsday / J. Conrad Williams, Jr.
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie had his choice of two New York teams.
And the Jets weren't his final answer.
The former Broncos cornerback agreed to a five-year, $35-million deal with the Giants Monday, according to multiple reports. And as a result, Rex Ryan and the Jets have even fewer options for their No. 1 cornerback spot.
The team released veteran Antonio Cromartie prior to free agency in an effort to clear significant cap space. But now, the three-time Pro Bowler is the best cornerback still available in the free-agent pool.
Rodgers-Cromartie spent the past few days in the New York/New Jersey area visiting both the Jets and Giants. He underwent a physical at the Giants facility Monday prior to agreeing on a new deal.
His deal with the Giants -- which reportedly includes $15 million guaranteed -- is less than Denver offered Rodgers-Cromartie him to return, according to Broncos beat writer Mike Klis.
With big-name free agents like Darrelle Revis, Alterraun Verner and Vontae Davis off the board, the Jets need to solidify a backup plan -- and soon. Given the names that are still out there, general manager John Idzik should go after Cromartie, who spent a few days in Arizona visiting the Cardinals.
Interestingly enough, it wouldn't be the first time the Jets have been forced to settle (for lack of a better word) on Cromartie. Back in 2011, they re-signed him after their efforts to land Nnamdi Asomugha fell through.
Will they do the same in 2014?
