Safety Jim Leonhard is the second member of the Baltimore Ravens defence to join former coach Rex Ryan at the New York Jets.
Second Ravens defensive man joins Jets exodus
Safety Jim Leonhard is the second member of the Baltimore Ravens defence to join former coach Rex Ryan at the New York Jets.
Ryan was defensive coordinator last season in Baltimore, when he marshalled the Ravens defence to become the second best in the NFL.
After bagging linebacker Bart Scott last week, Ryan and the Jets have secured the services of a second Raven with Leonhard moving to the Meadowlands.
The 26-year-old made 69 regular season tackles last year and started 13 games for the Ravens, and was more impressive in the post-season with 16 tackles, one interception, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries during the play-offs.
"He's a smart player that can get guys lined up in the secondary and was one of the best tacklers on that Ravens defense," Ryan said.
Great addition
"He's always around the ball, brings everything he has on every play and will be a great addition to our group of defensive backs."
Leonhard, who also returned punts and kick-offs last season, will help to bolster a defence that ranked 29th against the run last season.
Ryan and former Baltimore defensive assistant Mike Pettine are both now with the Jets, as head coach and defensive coordinator respectively, and that helps with the transition for Leonhard.
"I am extremely excited to become a New York Jet," Leonhard said in a statement.
"Obviously, to be reunited with coach Ryan and coach Pettine on the defensive side of the ball is a great opportunity. I am really excited to get in there this first year with coach Ryan and hopefully help do some great things."
Free agent
Leonhard spent three season with the Buffalo Bills after being an undrafted free agent out of Wisconsin in 2005.
"I've liked Jim since his days at Wisconsin and was excited when we were able to bring him to Baltimore last season," said Ryan.
"He was everything I expected him to be in 2008 when he bailed us out at safety after we had some injuries."
The Jets have also re-signed 37-year-old full-back Tony Richardson on a one-year deal.
Three-time Pro Bowl selection Richardson has helped the likes of Larry Johnson and Adrian Peterson over the years, and his blocking enabled Thomas Jones to be the AFC's leading rusher last year.
