New York Jets restructure their defence as they cut defensive end Marcus Dixon – NFL News
New York Jets were the busiest of the teams during last week as they cut many players from the roster, while claiming many off the waivers.
The most surprising decision they made during this time was the release of defensive end Marcus Dixon, who had played the entire 2011 season for them and looked to start this season as well.
Dixon’s reign at Jets ended in the same way as it had started. Jets claimed Dixon in the 2010 offseason from Dallas Cowboys.
The main reason behind the release of Dixon seems to be salary of the 27-year-old. Jets have faced problem of late regarding salary cap.
Meanwhile, Jets have claimed nose tackle Isaako Aaitui from Miami Dolphins who is set to fit in place of Dixon.
Yet one cannot say that this could make a vital difference as far as performance is concerned. Jets will give Aaitui salary which will be just $150,000, less than Dixon who was scheduled to receive $540,000 this season.
Regarding his release, Dixon gave some appreciating remarks through Twitter. He said:
“I wanna thank you for all of your love and support. Y’all are truly amazing. I had a blast in this organization. Thank you.”
Dixon played two seasons with Jets. In his first season with the Jets, Dixon played just three games in which he got just four tackles and one sack.
Last season he started three games and managed to score 1.5 sacks and one forced fumble. He also got a total of 16 tackles during the season.
Dixon was not the only player who got cut by Jets. Jets cut half of their draft picks this year as their general manager Mike Tannenbaum called the waiver wire a mini draft. Tight end Dedrick Epps was also released.
Apart from Aaiuti, Jets also signed wide receiver Clyde Gates to strengthen the receiving corps.
Dixon started his career with Dallas Cowboys who added him as an undrafted free agent in 2008. Dixon got more attention for the reasons related to his personal life as he was prosecuted in a high-profile case of aggravated molestation.
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