Posted by Ryan WilsonOn Friday, Derrick Mason said he would make a decision on where he would play his 15th NFL season in 24-48 hours, and true to his word he made the announcement Saturday. After beginning his career with Tennessee, and spending the last six years in Baltimore, Mason, 37, will play with the Jets in 2011.
"After a lot of very thoughtful and careful consideration, conversations with my family and prayer, I have decided to sign with the New York Jets," Mason said. "I'm looking forward to working under Rex and rejoining some familiar faces."
The news comes as something of a surprise. Mason left New York last week with an offer on the table and interest from both the Titans and the Ravens. On Friday, Baltimore lost out on Malcom Floyd when he returned to the Chargers, and are in desperate need of depth at the position (which seems to be the case every year). With Anquan Boldin as the only legitimate veteran wideout on the roster, the team will have to look elsewhere.
The Jets, meanwhile, recently signed 34-year-old Plaxico Burress to replace Braylon Edwards. And last week they released No. 3 WR Jerricho Cotchery. Mason doesn't have the speed to separate from defenders, but he was one of Joe Flacco's favorite targets in Baltimore because of his ability to get open. He will likely prove to be the same sort of player for Mark Sanchez in New York.
If there were any concerns that Mason had second thoughts about his decision, this tweet removes all doubt. "Jet fuel is full time to fly!!!!! Going from one young gun to another!! Hahahahahaha."
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