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KFFL.com reports that the New York Jets have announced they have released TE Bubba Franks.
 

Mancini’s Take: This move comes as no shock to anyone who’s seen Franks play recently. What’s shocking about the lumbering tight end is that he was still on the team. It’s amazing that the former Packer is only 31-years-old given how slow and injury prone he’s become. Yes, the well gets pretty dry at the hybrid position after Dustin Keller. The Jets are hoping that undrafted rookie Jack Simmons from Minnesota can fill in as the number-two tight end. First and foremost, Gang Green is looking for an in-line player who can bend his knees and block. So far, coach Rex Ryan has been happy with the technique Simmons has shown. The kid has some pretty nice footwork. It’s a start. J’Nathan Bullock is another prospect the Jets are rolling the dice on, but he’s a project who may end up on the practice squad. Finally, let’s not forget Kareem Brown, who the Jets are converting from a defensive end to a blocking tight end. Your guy Martez Milner must have been pretty darn lousy if he couldn’t hang with these guys, Ross man. Getting back to Franks for a second, it looks as though this may be it for him. Unlike Brian Griese, who was also released, there may be no market for the big man. Being slow and fragile is no way to make a living in the NFL.

Mandel's Take: Now HERE is a move that surprised no one. Franks is only 31, but his knees make him a lot older in football years and it may have been another bothersome knee that did him in here. It's time, Bubba. But now what's in store for the Jets at the tight end position? A converted DE, a basketball player, and an undrafted rookie? Relying on one of those players to contribute in the blocking game is a great deal to ask, especially when you have a shiny new rookie quarterback. Simmons was a second team All Big Ten selection so it's not as if he's never played the position before...that would be Brown. It will be shocking if the Jets don't find themselves a veteran tight end off the scrap heap once rosters get cut down.
 
 

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