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Mike Maccagnan continues a very active approach to the official opening of free agency, as the Jets released wide receiver Jeremy Kerley to create more cap space.
Jets releasing WR Jeremy Kerley today.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2016
With his departure, the team saves $1.3 million on a player who practically vanished on offense. Kerley was originally drafted by the Jets in 2011 and emerged as a reliable slot receiver in recent years. However, his role immediately diminished with this year's new regime, as Kerley was delegated to solely returning punts by the end of the season. He finished 2015 with just 16 receptions for 152 yards and averaged 8.6 yards per punt return.
This decision was one that most Jets fans expected, as Kerley wasn't worth the money considering the role that he performed last year. This move also works out well for Kerley since he should have better luck on the open market as a consistent slot receiver and will most likely receive more playing time somewhere else.