Watch CBS News

Report: Tampering Charges Filed Against Jets For Johnson's Revis Comments

BOSTON (CBS) -- A simple seven word statement could cost the New York Jets a pretty penny.

According to a report by ESPN, tampering charges have been filed against the Jets following owner Woody Johnson's comments regarding Patriots All Pro corner Darrelle Revis last month.

During a December 29 press conference to announce the firings of coach Rex Ryan and general manager John Idzik, Johnson was asked about his team not being able to sign Revis last offseason. The Jets owner said he didn't think he could get Revis back to New York based on his previous experience with the corner's agents, but he would love to have him back roaming the Jets defensive backfield once again.

"Darrelle's a great player," said Johnson. I'd love to have Darrelle come back."

Johnson attempted to backtrack from that comment later that night, as the team released a statement from the owner on Twitter.

"I misspoke today when I commented on Darrelle Revis," Johnson statement said. "I would never interfere in the contractual relationship of a player with another team and should not have used those words. I called (Patriots owner) Robert Kraft this afternoon to emphasize those points."

The NFL's anti-tampering policy prohibits "any public or private statement of interest, qualified or unqualified, in another club's player." The league is still reportedly trying to determine if there was any violation with Johnson's comments.

Revis' contract with New England has an option for 2015 valued at $20 million, and it is expected the Patriots will likely decline that option in hopes of working out a long-term deal with the All Pro corner. That would make Revis an unrestricted free agent, and leave a sliver of hope that there could be a potential reunion for Revis and the Jets.

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.