The fractured relationship between the Jets and tight end Chris Baker does not appear close to mending, as Baker ripped the team when addressing the media today.

When asked if he expects to play for the Jets this year, Baker said, “If things stay the way they are, no, I don’t see how that’s possible. I don’t want that to be the case, but I don’t see how that’s possible … Imagine if coach [Eric] Mangini was the third highest-paid coach on the staff. You think he’d be happy about that? You think he would allow that to happen? I mean, that’s how I feel.”

Baker started 15 games last season and caught 41 passes for 409 yards. He said today that those numbers don’t show his true value, because he was asked to stay in and block last year and did so gladly. Baker has two years left on his current deal and is owed a base salary of $1.65 million this season.

Baker has said that General Manager Mike Tannenbaum agreed to a restructuring of his contract, only to recant later. Said Tannenbaum today, “I know what was said so I think Chris and I have a difference of opinion on those conversations.”

Baker also compared his present situation to what happened last year with guard Pete Kendall, who was traded to the Redskins after complaining about his contract. Said Baker of Kendall, “His situation was ridiculous and it basically tanked our season last year … Hopefully, I don’t get put in that situation, but it looks like we’re going down the same road.”