The New York Jets rumors are beginning to fly as the offseason draws closer. One of the latest rumors surrounding them asks whether Ray Rice could be a potential 2016 NFL Free Agency signing.
At this point in time, it appears that the Jets could have a need at the running back position next year. Chris Ivory is beginning to be talked about as an unlikely re-signing for the Jets. His age is an issue for the Jets and there are cheaper and better options out on the market that New York could target.
Rice hasn't played in the NFL since video footage surfaced of him punching his then fiancee in the face.
While he deserved a lot of punishment for the actions he displayed in the footage, he also deserves a second chance. Other NFL players like Greg Hardy received a second chance and Rice certainly should get one as well. He has proven himself to be a very solid all-around running back throughout his career, although there are concerns that he may be a bit too rusty at this point in time.
Throughout the 92 regular season games that Rice has played in the NFL, he recorded 6,180 yards and 37 touchdowns on 1,430 carries. Those numbers were a big part of the Baltimore offense and he helped lead them to a huge Super Bowl win over the San Francisco 49ers.
At 29 years old with the time off that he has had, Rice is without question capable of making an impact.
New York would be wise to give him a small contract offer and see if he bites on it. If he is interested in coming on board, the Jets would have the definition of a low-cost, high reward player.
Hopefully Rice does get a second chance at some point in the near future. Whether the Jets give him that chance or another team around the league, he deserves one and it would be intriguing to see how he bounces back now that he has his life in order.
Expect to hear plenty of rumors about Rice this coming offseason when free agency gets underway.
