The search for a slot receiver could lead the Jets into the waters for a restricted free agent. The final eight limitations will not apply to restricted free agents. Lance Moore of New Orleans is one such option. The Saints made him a second round tender offer. That means the Jets would have to make an offer the Super Bowl Champions would refuse to match and then give up a second round pick to land Moore.
Moore is probably best known for his controversial catch on a two point conversion in the Super Bowl against the Colts. It was a nice cap to a disappointing season. Hamstring and ankle injuries limited him to 7 games. He struggled to work his way up the depth chart after the injuries and saw limited action. Just a year earlier, Moore had a big year with 79 catches, 928 yards, and 10 touchdowns, leading the team in all three categories. This 2008 season was the most extensive action Lance ever received. A Marques Colston injury bought him 6 starts. He worked his way up from being a full time practice squad player in 2005.
The numbers he put up in his most extensive playing time interest me. The New Orleans offense is a meritocracy in the passing game. Drew Brees doesn't lock onto one target. He spreads it around looking for the open man. Moore got open more than anybody in that lineup 2008. He's an excellent route runner with good hands. I don't see a guy with blazing speed when I watch him on tape, but he's fast enough to be effective. The route running helps make up for that also. He's a 26 year old guy I think is developing into a very good player and an excellent slot receiver, a potential breakout guy in the right situation.
I think it's likely the Saints let Moore walk. They have plenty of depth at the position. They can allocate that money in spots of greater need, and take a Draft pick. I think the passing game should definitely be a priority this offseason. If we're going to talk about Golden Tate or Jordan Shipley with an early pick, it's worth discussing using that pick to land a more proven young slot guy.
When I say pursue, I don't necessarily mean I would sign a guy at any cost, just the Jets should consider a player. That's how I feel about Moore. I think this team could survive with Dustin Keller and Leon Washington working in the slot, but adding a budding excellent receiver should be a consideration. He could make the team that much better. If the price is right, I wouldn't object.
I vote pursue.
How do you vote?
Poll
Should the Jets try to sign Lance Moore?
This poll is closed
-
6%
Yes, at any cost. He's a future star.
(27 votes) -
45%
Yes, but only at the right cost.
(199 votes) -
43%
No, a second round pick is too much to give up.
(190 votes) -
5%
No, there's no need to focus on receiver.
(23 votes)