SAFETY COURSE: Sources said the Jets remain interested in free-agent S John Lynch, who was released Sunday by the Patriots. Many assume Lynch has an agreement with the Patriots to re-sign after Week 1 - that way, his 2008 salary wouldn't be guaranteed - but the Jets are trying to intercept the nine-time Pro Bowler. This is the latest scrap between the two rivals.
Surprisingly, Eric Mangini, usually tight-lipped when asked about available players, actually confirmed the team's interest. (A message to Bill Belichick, perhaps?) Mangini said Lynch is on a short list, adding, "It's not a list of one. It's a group of players."
Scouts say Lynch, who turns 37 in three weeks, has slowed down considerably. But the Jets apparently have a role in mind for him. They went after him hard in early August, when he was released by the Broncos.