Minnesota Football Alumni News: Eric Decker Released by New York Jets

On Monday the New York Jets officially did what had been rumored for about a week and released former Gopher wide receiver Eric Decker. Decker played in just three games last season for the Jets after suffering a torn labrum and a hip injury that ended him up on the injured reserve list. Decker was to be in the fourth year of a five year contract he signed with the Jets in 2014 that was due to play him $7.25 million in 2017.

The Jets attempted to trade Decker, but it appears that no suitors were willing to pick up the full value of Decker’s contract. He now is a free agent and can sign with any NFL team.

Prior to last years injury filled season, Decker had averaged 81.5 catches over the last four seasons with the Denver Broncos and the Jets. He also has averaged over 1,085 yards per season and ten touchdowns per season over that stretch. While Decker is now 30, assuming he has fully recovered from his injuries, he should still have lots of productive football left in his career.

So where will Decker end up? The homer choice is of course the Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings could use another quality receiver, and Minnesota fans love the hometown kid comes back home storyline. Unfortunately for those interested parties, it appears that probably will not be happening.

However, Decker may still end up wearing a shade of purple. Reports indicate that Decker is being pursued hard by the Baltimore Ravens. Even though the Ravens signed Jeremy Maclin on Monday, it appears they want to revamp their entire wide out group. A Gopher pairing with Decker and Maxx Williams could be fun.

Wherever Decker ends up, Gopher fans will be watching and hoping he regains his old form.