Janoris Jenkins is now looking for a new team, and despite the need for a veteran cornerback, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers should steer clear.
The New York Giants released their starting cornerback Janoris Jenkins after engaging in a feud with a fan in which he used a term disparaging those with developmental disabilities. When asked to apologize and repair the situation, Jenkins stated that he was simply using a slang term; keep him far away from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
"“Yeah, I regret it, but at the end of the day it’s my slang, so if you take it how you’re gonna take it then that’s on you… I don’t mean to offend nobody. My daddy always told me speak freely and own up to what you say. So I always speak freely as a man, and I speak how I want to speak” (Jenkins via NY Daily News)."
Jameis Winston hosts the Tampa Bay Special Olympics, Donovan Smith leads the Autism Speaks march around Raymond James Stadium. In what world would adding Jenkins to this up and coming culture at One Buc be a good idea?
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There have been no talks to this point of bringing Jenkins in, but given the young and inexperienced nature of the Buccaneers’ cornerback room, a veteran presence could be added. The team is better off looking elsewhere for that veteran leadership as Jenkins as shown no ounce of leadership in his career.
Jenkins has graded out at a 64.4 this year for his performance in the Big Apple according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required). He has tallied 14 passes defended this year with four interceptions, no tackles for loss, and 45 solo tackles. Over his career, Jenkins has tallied 22 interceptions in eight seasons in the league with both the Giants and the then St. Louis Rams.
Jamel Dean and Sean Murphy-Bunting are starting to develop across from Carlton Davis, who has taken a step forward in his second year. Adding a leader in the room will be a necessity this offseason, but do not expect it to be Jenkins.