Dustin Keller's extended visit with the Miami Dolphins ended with the tight end leaving the facility without a contract.
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This doesn't mean a deal won't get done. ESPNNewYork.com's Rich Cimini reported Thursday that the sides will stay in touch, while Cimini postulated the Dolphins are holding off to get a better idea of the tight end market.
If the New York Jets are smart, they would seize upon this open window. In a week in which their already shaky roster has been gutted, coach Rex Ryan & Co. should re-think their decision to let Keller walk away without a fight.
Here's why:
1) Keller can play: The Jets have an almost comical lack of playmakers on offense. If the team has any hope for quarterback Mark Sanchez (and this is debatable), it doesn't make much sense to strip him of his well-established security blanket. Even if Sanchez isn't the future, the next guy deserves a proper tight end. Keller qualifies.
2) Keller can be paid: The Jets won't be in great financial standing until they can safely unload some of the poison contracts on their roster. That said, the defection of several players this week -- or the "Rex-odus" as Cimini puts it -- has put New York approximately $15 million under the salary cap. It's OK to spend, Mr. Idzik. Just do it wisely.
3) Keller fits the scheme: Keller was hurt for most of last season, but he wouldn't have had much fun anyway playing in Tony Sparano's unimaginative offense. It's a different story this year with Marty Mornhenwig installing a West Coast offense that runs on players with Keller's skill set.
Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @DanHanzus.
