New York Jets potential free agent target Logan Ryan now views himself as an NFL safety—a position he absolutely fits.
The rumors that once swirled around a potential New York Jets–Logan Ryan marriage have faded a bit. Nobody could really figure out why.
On Monday, a potential clue surfaced as to why Ryan is not already draped in Gotham Green.
Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the veteran defensive back now views himself as an NFL safety.
Free agent Logan Ryan views himself as a safety, rather than the cornerback he’s generally listed as. To that end, his agent emailed all 32 GMs these top safety stats and asked them to compare his production. An interesting discussion to be sure as one of the top FAs looms. pic.twitter.com/NZni6BYmND
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 10, 2020
“Free agent Logan Ryan views himself as a safety, rather than the cornerback he’s generally listed as,” Rapoport tweeted. “To that end, his agent emailed all 32 GMs these top safety stats and asked them to compare his production. An interesting discussion to be sure as one of the top FAs looms.”
Ryan, 29, made complete sense for a Gregg Williams-run defense needing cornerback reinforcements. Back on May 12 of this past offseason, the New York Daily News’ Manish Mehta reported that the two sides (Jets, Ryan’s camp) were closing in on a one-year deal that would bring the former Bill Belichick defensive back to Florham Park, NJ.
BREAKING: Jets believe that they will sign former Patriots & Titans defensive back Logan Ryan to a one-year deal, per sources.
Smart move by Joe Douglas.
Full story: https://t.co/wVvYYi9nYj pic.twitter.com/rpjCxaaKyG
— Manish Mehta (@MMehtaNYDN) May 12, 2020
The pact never came to fruition, and, perhaps, his request to be viewed as a safety impacted the non-deal.
New York—without Jamal Adams—is slated to start Marcus Maye high (at free safety) and newcomer Bradley McDougald down low (at strong safety). Third-round rookie Ashtyn Davis is currently penciled in as the third guy who would see the field in big dime looks. The fit would be a tough one if Ryan insists on rigidly moving to safety.
On the other side of the coin, Ryan’s versatility is well-known, and his on-field abilities and locker room leadership would still fit what Joe Douglas is attempting to build. Of course, Ryan would need to give the go-ahead to use that versatility (at both corner and safety) for it to truly make sense for both parties.
The Berlin, NJ native’s attributes would translate well to the safety spot, but does it fit the New York Jets defense in the here and now?
With over $30 million in cap space, there’s plenty of room to make Logan Ryan work out contractually.
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