Scott's agent talking possible trade with Jets

NEW YORK _ Bart Scott's future with the Jets remains in question.

The linebacker's agent, Harold Lewis, told Newsday on Monday that he discussed the possibility of a trade with the Jets during the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis this past week. The Jets, however, haven't granted Scott permission to seek a trade, nor has the 31-year-old formally requested one.

Scott, who wasn't happy with his role and reduced playing time at the end of the season, is due to pocket a guaranteed $4.4 million in base salary in 2012, the fourth season of a six-year, $48-million pact. Newsday reported after the Jets' season-ending loss in Miami that Scott, who took a $1-million pay cut in August from his initial salary of roughly $5 million, likely wouldn't be back with the team for a fourth season.

Scott was one of the first players Rex Ryan targeted in free agency when he took over in 2009, showing up at Scott's door once teams were allowed to talk to free agents. But Scott's playing time took a dramatic dip in 2011, as he was replaced by young linebacker Josh Mauga on certain passing downs and in other situations.

So it might be hard for the Jets to justify paying Scott such a hefty sum if he is brought back in a reserve role, something that appears highly unlikely given Scott's frustration with the way he was utilized.

Scott's discontent bubbled over the day after the Jets' season finale, when he made an obscene gesture at a photographer in the locker room as he went to pack up his belongings. The team fined him $10,000, deeming his actions "inappropriate."

Asked as he exited the locker room Jan. 2 if he would not be back with the Jets in 2012, Scott said: "I don't know why. I've got a guaranteed contract for $4 million."

GIANTS, THOMAS TALKING

The Giants and representatives for Terrell Thomas have been talking about a new deal for the would-be free agent cornerback, but those conversations are still in the "early stages," according to his agent, Doug Hendrickson. Thomas was expected to be a Pro Bowl-level player for the Giants in 2011 but never played a down after tearing his ACL in the second preseason game. The Giants have another two weeks to negotiate with Thomas exclusively before he becomes an unrestricted free agent. Thomas has expressed a desire to remain with the Giants.

Meanwhile, representatives for running back Brandon Jacobs reportedly met with the Giants this weekend in Indianapolis to discuss parameters under which he might return to the team. He's owed $4.9 million in 2012 and almost certainly won't be back at that price.

(c)2012 Newsday

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