The next domino in the Jets’ offseason plans fell on Tuesday morning, as it was announced that New York plans to sign former Baltimore Ravens linebacker C.J. Mosley to a five-year deal worth up to $85 million when the new league year begins tomorrow.
The Jets sought a linebacker to potentially replace Darron Lee in Gregg Williams’ defense and settled on Mosley as their guy. New York had to sway Mosley away from re-signing with Baltimore and backed it up by giving Mosley the most expensive contract to an inside linebacker in the NFL.
Let’s get to know the Jets newest addition.
Impressive Accolades
New York’s newest defensive addition has a long history of success.
Mosley is a four-time Pro-Bowler and a four-time member of second-team All-Pro. In college, Mosley helped the University of Alabama win two BCS National Championships. He was also awarded the Dick Butkus award, which is handed to college football’s most impressive linebacker, in 2013 and earned SEC Defensive Player of the Year honors that same season.
Could have been a Jet once before
The Baltimore Ravens selected C.J. Mosley with the No. 17 pick in the 2014 NFL draft, one pick before New York selected safety Calvin Pryor.
There was no telling whether the Jets would have taken Mosley or not, but his talent cannot be denied. Mosley was originally viewed as a top-10 pick out of Alabama. However, he underwent surgery to repair a labrum issue after dislocating his hip prior to the NFL Combine.
After having a good pro-day, Mosley solidified himself as a top player in the draft, but a lengthy injury history prevented him from being drafted in the top-15.
Number 57
After being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens and signing a four-year deal with the team, C.J. Mosley was issued a uniform number. Mosley was assigned the No. 57, which was worn by former Baltimore Raven O. J. Brigance.
57 had been unofficially retired after Brigance was diagnosed with ALS. Former New York Jet Bart Scott wore No. 57 during his time in Baltimore, but the number had not been worn since he left for the Jets.
The number itself became a symbol of the Ravens organization due to Brigance’s battle with ALS. Mosely had the honor bestowed upon him to wear 57 in Baltimore. It will be interesting to see if he wears that number with the Jets and continues the legacy elsewhere.
Three-Sport Athlete in High School
C.J. Mosley was one of the top athletes in Alabama during his high school years. Besides football, he excelled in track and field and basketball.
Mosley registered 186 tackles during his senior year in 2009, also adding seven sacks, five fumble recoveries, and four interceptions. He finished his high school career as his school’s all-time leading tackler, with over 500 tackles. His athleticism and staggering production in high school sports helped him become a four-star recruit that landed with the Crimson Tide.
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