Word out of Fox Sports is that free agent safety Jim Leonhard has verbally agreed to terms on a new deal with the New York Jets.Leonhard was was a one of Baltimore's biggest defensive surprises last year after signing a free-agent deal with the Ravens. The ex-Bills safety registered a career-high 68 tackles and six passes defended for Baltimore's No. 2-ranked defense in 2008.
This was a move that was expected to happen last week, but it was in question to some degree after Leonhard left the Jet's facilities with no contract. It is believed that Leonhard was exploring his options in the market before making a final decision.
This is a great signing by the Jets. The team had a hole to fill at the safety position, considering Abram Elam and Eric Smith are better suited as back ups.
Leonhard comes from Baltimore, where he thrived in Rex Ryan's defensive system (68 tackles in 2008) and should bring the same productivity with him to New York. Line him up next to Kerry "Hollywood" Rhodes, add Darelle Revis and Lito Sheppard filling in at corner, and the Jets have a much improved defensive backfield going into the draft.
**UPDATE** - 1:00p - The Broncos have made a last second bid to Leonhard in an attempt to lure him away from the Jets.
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