Though not officially announced (yet) by the team, the New York Jets reportedly have cut running back Jesse Chatman.
Chatman rushed for 93 yards and a touchdown in the team’s preseason finale. He was signed earlier this year as an unrestricted free agent from the Dolphins, where he appeared in 14 games and started six in 2007.
Also released, reportedly, were linebacker Matt Chatham, cornerback Hank Poteat, tight end A.J. Schable, nose tackle Thomas Johnson, and fullback Jehuu Caulcrick. The Jets cuts running back Musa Smith earlier this week.
The moves leave the Jets with only two running backs on the current roster: Thomas Jones and Leon Washington. They undoubtedly will sign another one, but they don’t have much room to move. Chatman’s release clears only $605,000 in 2008 cap space.
One possibility is Najeh Davenport, who played with quarterback Brett Favre in Green Bay. It remains to be seen whether the Jets would pursue a vested veteran before Week One, or whether they’ll play the first game with only two tailbacks and sign a veteran thereafter.
The Jets might also pounce on one of the running backs released by the Patriots, who currently have five tailbacks and a fullback.
UPDATE: Chatman’s agent says that the Star-Ledger is wrong, and that Chatman isn’t going anywhere.
_2.gif)





August 30th, 2008 at 9:17 am
Brad Smith is also a RB for the team. As well as WR, PR, and QB.
(report as inappropriate)
Rating: Not yet rated
August 30th, 2008 at 9:27 am
He’s listed only as a receiver and he doesn’t appear on the team’s running back depth chart. But maybe he can serve as an emergency tailback for Week One.
(report as inappropriate)
Rating: Not yet rated
August 30th, 2008 at 9:31 am
Davenport is a good, versatile back. I’m suprised nobody has picked him up. If Pacman and Chris Henry can find work, there is certainly a spot for the Dumptruck.
(report as inappropriate)
Rating: 5 / 5 with 2 rating(s)
August 30th, 2008 at 9:46 am
The jets only had 2 running backs on the roster last year too!
(report as inappropriate)
Rating: 5 / 5 with 2 rating(s)
August 30th, 2008 at 10:01 am
Wonder if they may make a move for Rudi? Or have someone in mind from the cuts.
(report as inappropriate)
Rating: 1 / 5 with 1 rating(s)
August 30th, 2008 at 10:02 am
I’m sure Davenport will be great for those “dump off” passes out of the backfield! Or someone’s closet!!
(report as inappropriate)
Rating: 5 / 5 with 1 rating(s)
August 30th, 2008 at 10:18 am
I’m surprised that Dookie the Dumpster is still available.
(report as inappropriate)
Rating: 5 / 5 with 1 rating(s)
August 30th, 2008 at 11:33 am
I doubt that the Jets would be interested in BenJarvis Green-Ellis as their 3rd RB. The other 5 Pats backs are expected to make that team.
(report as inappropriate)
Rating: Not yet rated