Patriots running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis remains one of the team's highest profile free agents left unsigned, along with defensive end / outside linebacker Mark Anderson. Yesterday, Green-Ellis visited the Bengals, but nothing appears imminent there. Now, according to the New York Post, the Patriots' biggest rivals, the New York Jets are apparently interested:
Could the Jets be looking to take a free agent from Bill Belichick?
The Jets have expressed interest in Patriots free agent running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis, according to a source. The interest is preliminary at the moment and nothing is imminent. The two sides have yet to schedule a meeting.
This doesn't sound like anything too concrete... yet. If they are looking for a back-up to Shonn Greene, I don't think the "Law Firm" would be in their price range. Still, this is slightly concerning from a Patriots perspective. While many in New England expect 2011 3rd round draft pick Stevan Ridley to be the running back of the future, BenJarvus Green-Ellis is a reliable veteran with limited wear that probably brings more to the Patriots than he would any other team.
If the Patriots can secure Green-Ellis for two or three years at around $3 million a year, I think it's a win for both sides. Perhaps the News that the Jets are interested in Green-Ellis will make the Patriots feel a greater sense of urgency. However, it is important to note that Green-Ellis will supposedly give the Patriots the chance to match any offer he gets on the free agent market.