Could the Jets move Thomas Jones?

I wrote a piece back in February about the pros and cons of trading Thomas Jones. Back then, it was a very risky proposition moving the AFC's leading rusher with Leon Washington the only other halfback on the roster. But with the addition of Shonn Greene in the draft, the idea of moving Jones makes a lot more sense than ever before. Greene and Washington would compliment each other perfectly as a thunder and lightning combination, with Jehuu Caulcrick or Danny Woodhead getting carries here and there. There are also number of veterans eager for an oppportunity such as Warrick Dunn, Deuce McAllister, and DeShaun Foster.

Mike Lombardi of the National Football Post says that "there's talk" that Jones might be made available, especially if the front office is confident enough with Greene.

Jones, who will be 31 years old come opening day, is coming off the best year of his career. His value will never be higher, and it's highly likely that this is his last season in green and white considering his contract structure, Greene's presence, and a probably new big contract for Washington.

The downside is that with a raw quarterback at the helm, moving the only proven full-time back on the roster is a very risky proposition. Greene and Washington look great on paper, but Washington is a little undersized and has never carried a full load, while Greene is a rookie with one year as a starter under his belt in college. If the Jets want to win now, trading their most proven offensive weapon is counter-intuitive, especially if the Jets plan on being a smash mouth team.

Also, while Jones's value may be at its peak, it still isn't that high. He may not net more than a 4th round pick on the open market, considering his age and the surplus of runningbacks in the league. Braylon Edwards could be a possibility down the line, but most of the speculation surrounding him was media-generated. Still, it makes a lot of sense for the Jets to try to move Jones and a draft pick for Edwards. Of course, if he really wants $10 million a year, don't expect him to go anywhere. Mike Tannenbaum has been known to make some big moves, so nothing should be surprising at this point.