Mike Tannenbaum Both Quotations

Curtis Martin is a special person and a player destined for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He has confirmed through his actions that he is always seeking ways to help the New York Jets win football games and to lead the team both verbally and through his extremely high level of play.

Our intention all along was to have Chad remain with the Jets and we never wavered from that. Chad is a courageous and talented leader. Throughout this process, he put the interests of the team ahead of his own, enabling us to reach an agreement on terms beneficial to both parties.

By franchising John, it speaks volumes about what type of player we feel he is, and we stand behind our decision, with the full realization that at this point in time it is in the best interest of the club from both a financial and competitive standpoint.

I'm humbled by this opportunity and feel fortunate that ownership has shown confidence in me to build this team both for the short and long term. We are going to be accountable to our fans and ownership and we're going to make tough decisions, not easy ones. I eagerly accept this challenge. We are going to stay convicted to our core goals and, in doing so we can accomplish everything that we set out to do.

The franchise tag is one of the resources we have to protect ourselves in a competitive league. By franchising John, it speaks volumes about what type of player we feel he is, and we stand behind our decision, with the full realization that at this point in time, it is in the best interest of the club, from both a financial and competitive standpoint.

Kevin was a tremendous player for the Jets and we are appreciative of his contributions both on and off the field for the organization.