Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall may get his wish yet. Reports have surfaced that the New York Jets are interested in acquiring the disgruntled Bronco. Marshall has loudly claimed he either wants a new contract or a trade.
But are the Jets the best destination for Marshall? Would the Jets seriously want a player that has the off-field baggage that Marshall totes? Would New York City and Marshall be a good mix? Would Marshall be a good fit within the Jets locker room? Could the Jets deal with the behavior Marshall has exhibited lately?
The answer to all of those questions: Simply, no.
Having Marshall in the city that never sleeps is a dangerous mix on so any levels. This is not a knock on NYC. New York has many athletes in all sports that more than live up to their end of the bargain (Jeter and Eli just to name a couple). This is also not a knock on the Jets. They dealt with Favre last season, but Marshall is a different sort of "celebrity".
I have the perfect fit for Marshall...Baltimore. Yes, Baltimore.
From a football standpoint, Marshall is a perfect fit to go along side veteran Derrick Mason. Mason could use the help and distraction (on the field) that Marshall brings. Mason could show Marshall the ropes on being a professional. Mason's veteran presence will only serve to aid Marshall both in his performance and his maturity. But the benefits for Marshall going to the Ravens do not end there.
The Ravens have a strong, veteran presence in the locker room. It all begins with Ray Lewis. Lewis is argueably the most respected player in the NFL. Does anyone think that Lewis would "permit" such behavior (punting a ball instead of handing it to the ballboy, walking while teammates are running, knocking away passes instead of catching them) out of any teammate? Not if Lewis is around. Lewis would hold Marshall accountable for his actions and address the situations on a personal level. It wouldn't be the first time Lewis would be in that position.
Denver still holds all the cards concerning a potential deal for Marshall. If they trade him before or during the season, they may be able to get not only a decent draft pick, they could also get a player that could immediately help them. If the Broncos wait until after the season, they could still garner a first and third round pick solely based on Marshall's talent.
I think the Jets should stay away from Marshall. His antics would only serve as a distraction. Plus, the Jets will be starting a rookie at quarterback in Mark Sanchez. I see that as more of a hinderance to Sanchez's growth. I know head coach Rex Ryan would help there. But would it be worth it to bring this diva into your locker room while you're trying to win a tough division?
Rex, just a piece of advice. Don't let it happen on your watch.
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