Nnamdi Asomugha: Cornerback Must Choose Between Ryan Brothers
What was a battle between four NFL teams has narrowed down to the Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets becoming the top contenders seeking to acquire free agent cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha.
Asomugha is what ESPN has referred to as “the most coveted free agent of them all,” and has created a bidding war between brothers Rex and Rob Ryan. The former Oakland Raider cornerback is reportedly asking for $12-$14 million a year.
On Thursday, ESPN reported that Rex Ryan and the Jets were $10 million below the required salary cap for the season. However, the figure did not include the amount of money that needed to be paid out to other free agents and draft picks.
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In an effort to clear more cap space, the Jets released quarterback Mark Brunell on Friday. However, ESPN reports that Dallas has an equally fair shot to acquire Asomugha since there is no state income tax.
Although NFL networks reported that the Jets would like to see Asomugha play with the team’s other cornerback Darrelle Revis, rumors have also surfaced that the Cowboy’s quarterback Tony Romo would also like the opportunity to play with the former Oakland free agent.
ESPN sat down with the Ryan brothers’ oldest sibling, Jim, to get his take on the battle fueling between Rex and Rob. Since Rob previously coached the cornerback in Oakland, Jim said the familiar relationship may work in his favor.
"Asomugha would have an immediate comfort level with Rob, and Rob would know the best way to use him,” Jim told ESPN about the current defensive coordinator of the Dallas Cowboys.
However, Jim acknowledged Rex as a coach coveted by NFL players.
“I think Rex was voted overwhelmingly in the Sports Illustrated poll the coach that players would most want to play for,” the eldest brother told ESPN.
In the end, Jim said the real battle would be between winning a championship and earning a large payroll.
"Dallas is a year or two away, where as the Jets definitely have that we-want-win-now mentality,” Jim said. “I have to think Dallas will put more money on the table, but does he want that over the chance to win now?"
