Jets release offensive lineman Greg Van Roten
Mike White #5 of the New York Jets celebrates his reception on a two point conversion during the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals with teammate Greg Van Roten #62 at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Credit: Jim McIsaac
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — The Jets released guard Greg Van Roten on Friday after claiming former Eagles offensive lineman Nate Herbig.
Van Roten, who grew up in Baldwin and Rockville Centre, appeared in 30 games with the Jets over two seasons. The former Chaminade High School star lost his starting right guard job last season after the Jets acquired Laurent Duvernay-Tardif at the trade deadline.
The Jets signed Van Roten, 32, to a three-year, $10.5 million contract in 2020 when general manager Joe Douglas started rebuilding the offensive line. He started all 13 games he played in during the 2020 season. Last year, Van Roten played all 17 games but started only 10.
Van Roten’s name often came up as a potential cap casualty to clear space, especially as his usage lessened. The Jets cleared $3.5 million by releasing Van Roten. Herbig is due $2.4 million this season.
The 6-4, 334-pound Herbig played in 33 games in three seasons for the Eagles, including 17 starts.
Van Roten, undrafted out of the University of Pennsylvania, began his NFL career in 2012 with the Packers. After playing in Canada, he spent three seasons with the Panthers.
Rookies resting
The Jets’ draft picks didn’t take part much in the team portions of rookie camp, which was by design. Robert Saleh said they’re limiting the draft picks to avoid risking injury after a “rigorous” schedule leading up to the draft that limited their ability to work out. Saleh said the coaches can get a closer look at players who are trying out.
Sauce’s bucket list
First-round pick Sauce Gardner, who looked up to former Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis, said meeting Revis is on “my bucket list.” Gardner said he’s talked with people in the organization about arranging that meeting.
Two-minute drill
The Jets signed five undrafted rookie free agents: wide receivers Keshunn Abrams (Kent State) and Irvin Charles (Indiana University of Pennsylvania), running back Zonovan “Bam” Knight, linebacker DQ Thomas (Middle Tennessee State) and safety Tony Adams (Illinois). They waived safety Zane Lewis, running back Austin Walter and offensive lineman Isaiah Williams.
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.
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