Timing of Kerley's Extension Curious for New York Jets

Four days after trading a conditional sixth-round draft pick -- a pick that becomes a fourth-rounder if Harvin is on their roster next season -- to the Seattle Seahawks for slot weapon Percy Harvin, the New York Jets extended the contract of current slot receiver Jeremy Kerley for four years and $16 million, with $5.4 million of that guaranteed. While the trade for Harvin seemed to signal the potential end of Kerley in New York, it instead was simply a precursor towards Kerley's return through 2018, which had been in the works for "a little while," according to the receiver.

While Kerley has endured his share of struggles this season, particularly when asked to be the team's No. 1 receiver when Eric Decker was sidelined due to injury, he has been an extremely dependable player for the Jets since being drafted in the fifth round in 2011. With the lack of dependable receivers the team has had during that time span, it's understandable the Jets would want to keep Kerley around and build continuity in the passing game to aid the development of second-year quarterback Geno Smith.

What is more difficult to understand is trading for an explosive slot receiver who has elite speed and ability after the catch, then re-signing a possession-focused slot man who acts as more of a chain mover. Every offense needs reliable receivers that can convert third downs and keep drives alive, but where will Kerley get his work if Harvin takes over the slot?

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