While both sides are still entrenched in their
positions, an injury to All Pro return specialist and cornerback Justin Miller could force the hand of the New York Jets.
A league source confirmed last night that Miller injured his leg during Sunday's
practice. And while the severity of the injury is not known, this simple
confirmation is telling.
As we previously
reported, Miller's play in training camp thus far has been impressive and
coaches have been encouraged by the improvement shown at cornerback by the
former second round pick. So much so sources told us that was one reason
why the Jets have not budged on offering Revis a six year deal.
If Miller is out of action for an length of
time, it could force the Jets hand to shave a year off the proposed contract.
According to sources, the Revis camp "is as
resolved as ever" to make sure their client receives a five-year deal or a
six-year contract which can be voided after the fifth year.
And who can blame them.
Outside of the top five selections every player
drafted in round one has either signed a six- year deal voidable after the fifth
year or a straight five-year contract.
As it was put to us, the Jets demanding Revis
sign a six-year deal equates to Revis demanding nothing more than a four-year
contract from the team. In other words, compared to the market value of
contracts given to first-round picks, it's a bit ridiculous.
Once they agree on the length of the contract
the two sides must then agree on money. Sources told us today the Jets and
Revis have not talked dollars and cents since they can't agree on the length of
the contract.