AFC Notes: Jets, Patriots, Steelers

Jets

The trade rumors around Jets S Jamal Adams have quieted down significantly since the spat between the two sides at last year’s deadline. However, the only thing that would truly end them would be for Adams to sign a long-term deal in New York, which has yet to happen and leaves the trade possibility still on the table, though teammates like Jets LB C.J. Mosley think actually going through with a deal would be a “crazy move.”

“First of all, he’s one of the leaders on the team,” Mosley said via ESPN’s Rich Cimini. “That’s first and foremost. He brings that extra energy whether guys want it or not. Sometimes you might be tired or not feeling good, but as soon as he steps on the field, you’re going to hear that voice and he’ll be flying around. To have that presence in the secondary, a guy that can make plays in the passing game and also plays in the backfield — in the box — that’s always exciting.”

• Cimini mentions the top option for the Jets to acquire an experienced backup quarterback might be signing Joe Flacco depending on his health. 
• Matt Moore is another option as he has some familiarity with HC Adam Gase, but a reunion isn’t seen as likely. Other available free agent QBs include Blake Bortles, Drew Stanton or Trevor Siemian.
• The Jets gave undrafted free agent OT Jared Hilbers $62,000 guaranteed in his rookie contract. 

Patriots

• The Patriots currently have the cap space to sign third-round TE Dalton Keene but do not have enough for second-round S Kyle Dugger, according to PatsCap.
• According to Jeff Howe, Patriots DE Chase Winovich underwent sports hernia surgery earlier this offseason and is expected to be fully recovered for the start of the season.  
• ESPN’s Mike Reiss points out Patriots G Joe Thuney, who’s under contract for 2020 on the one-year, $14.78 million franchise tag, is likely New England’s best option at backup center. 

Steelers

Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is working his way back from elbow surgery and while there have been some questions about how his conditioning will be, his former OC Bruce Arians expects big things from the veteran quarterback and the team in 2020. 

“The last three years, he’s been in unbelievable condition, just getting in shape,” Arians said recently on on “The Pat McAfee Show,” via CBS Sports.com. “And I think that arm was hurting him for a year. I think they’re going to have a big, big year. I think the Steelers’ defense is coming on. They could be right back in the thick of it.”