Jets sign former Chargers LB Antwan Barnes
San Diego Chargers linebacker Antwan Barnes (98) comes onto the field before a game against the Tennessee Titans in San Diego. (Sept. 16, 2012) Credit: AP
Antwan Barnes officially is a Jet. The former Chargers linebacker signed a three-year deal worth about $4 million.
Barnes tweeted Monday that he had been signed, but his announcement was a tad premature. Both sides still were hammering out the final details of his contract at that point, but it later became official.
The seven-year veteran, a pass-rushing specialist, could fill a void. The Jets recently cut outside linebacker Calvin Pace, and linebacker Bryan Thomas is not expected to return. Barnes had 72 tackles and 181/2 sacks the past three seasons in San Diego.
Titans release Hasselbeck
The Titans released quarterback Matt Hasselbeck. The Cardinals, Bills, Bears, Browns, Colts, Saints, Giants, 49ers and Bucs have expressed interest in Hasselbeck, and that "list could grow," according to ESPN's Chris Mortensen. But it sounds as if Hasselbeck, 37, may have found his next landing spot -- and it isn't Florham Park.
According to a USA Today Sports report, Hasselbeck already is in discussions with the Colts "and could soon agree" to become Andrew Luck's backup.
A source told The Associated Press that the Titans agreed to a two-year deal with former Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, who will back up Jake Locker.
Jet streams
The Jets re-signed free-agent long snapper Tanner Purdum to a two-year deal, his agent said . . . ProFootballTalk.com reported the Jets are interested in former Raiders wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey . . . The Chicago Sun-Times reported the Jets are interested in former Bears tight end Kellen Davis.
