The New York Jets' wide receivers were among the least effective in the NFL last season, generating just 68 more yards combined than Calvin Johnson produced on his own.
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Coming off Lisfranc surgery, Santonio Holmes is expected to be brought along slowly in training camp. Stephen Hill, last year's second-rounder, recently admitted he didn't understand "the whole football concept" as a rookie.
It's no surprise, then, that the Jets are in the market for a veteran wide receiver after failing to address the position in the 2013 NFL Draft.
The Jets already have met with Josh Cribbs, who left without a contract. General manager John Idzik recently hinted that Braylon Edwards is still on the team's radar.
That's not all. ESPNNewYork.com reports the Jets have held discussions with former Giants receiver Ramses Barden. ESPNNewYork.com's Rich Cimini also points out there have been rumors about possible interest in free agent Brandon Lloyd.
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If the Jets want insurance for Holmes' foot and Hill's inexperience, Barden may be their best option. Cribbs has never been a reliable contributor beyond special teams. Edwards appears to be on his last legs. The Jets don't need another clubhouse distraction, which is what Lloyd was with the New England Patriots last season.
Barden will never be confused for a speed demon, but he did toast the Carolina Panthers for nine receptions and 138 yards in his one career spot start last season. A huge target at 6-foot-6 and 230 pounds, Barden's catch radius could come in handy for the Jets' accuracy-challenged quarterbacks.
Follow Chris Wesseling on Twitter @ChrisWesseling.
