Tomlinson to meet with Jets on Friday

The Jets couldn't come to an agreement on a restructured contract with Thomas Jones, who signed with the Chiefs earlier this week. So they'll consider another thirtysomething running back as a replacement.

LaDainian Tomlinson, anyone?

Tomlinson, who was released last week by the Chargers, is expected to visit the Jets Friday at their training facility in Florham Park, N.J. Tomlinson met Thursday with the Vikings and was said to be highly intrigued by the team's situation. But he wanted to follow through on his visits, meaning the Jets are expected to at least get a shot at convincing him to join them.

The Jets beat Tomlinson's Chargers in the playoffs, holding him to 24 yards on 12 carries. Tomlinson, who turns 31 in June, is coming off the worst statistical season of his career: 730 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns. He had never rushed for fewer than 1,000 yards since coming into the NFL in 2001.

Tomlinson has plenty of familiarity with Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, a Chargers assistant from 2002-05.

Tomlinson met for several hours Thursday with the Vikings and was seen leaving their training complex with a team jersey before heading to New Jersey. The Vikings have a need at running back after losing free agent Chester Taylor to the Bears. Tomlinson would serve as a backup for Adrian Peterson.

The Jets need a backup for Shonn Greene, who emerged as their No. 1 back in the playoffs.

Tomlinson also would provide insurance if Jets running back Leon Washington, who suffered a fractured fibula last October, experiences any setbacks in his rehabilitation. Washington is expected to be ready for the start of the regular season.

Jets, S Pool agree. The Jets reached an agreement in principle with Browns free-agent safety Brodney Pool last night. The deal reportedly is for one year and $1.3 million.

In 11 games with Cleveland this past season, the 6-2, 210-pounder had 50 combined tackles, four interceptions, a sack and 11 passes defensed. He was a restricted free agent, but the Jets don't owe any draft-pick compensation because he wasn't tendered by Cleveland.

Pool, 25, has been plagued by concussions throughout his five-year career. He suffered at least his fourth concussion Nov. 29, creating doubts about whether he'd continue his career. But the Jets are convinced he still can play.