Jets News: Maurice Jones-Drew on New York’s Radar as Running Back Holds Out in Jacksonville?

Last year's league-leader in rushing yards could be changing teams in the near future.

Maurice Jones-Drew has held out of Jaguars camp for 27 days, and has suggested that he wouldn't mind being traded.

"Maurice wants to play for an organization that wants him and for an owner who respects him and values what he brings to a team -- on the field, in the locker room and in the community," stated Adisa Bakari, Jones-Drew's agent.

The running back wants a new contract before the 2012 NFL season starts. His 1,606 rushing yards were tops in the league in 2011, and he wants to make more than the $9.4 million he's scheduled to make over the next two years. Jones-Drew signed a five-year, $31 million deal in 2009.

Several teams would be in the market for the Jacksonville star if he became available. The Jets might be one of the favorites to land Jones-Drew if the Jaguars were committed to trading him.

New York prides itself on being able to run the ball. However, they are without a top running back. Shonn Greene ran for 1,054 yards a year ago, registering just two 100-yard games all season long.

The Jets have stated that they will look to run the ball a lot in the upcoming season, something they got away from at the end of last year. New offensive coordinator Tony Sparano specializes in moving the ball on the ground, and he could use another weapon to implement his philosophy.

A first-round draft pick would have to be included in any deal for Jones-Drew, but the Jets probably wouldn't be hesitant to give up a few high picks for the running back. Gang Green is looking to win a championship soon, and would be willing to mortgage some of their future to make a Super Bowl run.

Most successful teams have two good running backs on their roster. The Jets don't have much depth behind Greene, so pairing him with Jones-Drew wouldn't be a problem.

They could also trade their current starter to Jacksonville in a potential deal. The Jaguars might be willing to part with Jones-Drew for a draft pick and Greene, a cheaper option at running back.

Jacksonville says they don't plan on renegotiating Jones-Drew's contract. Owner Shad Khan claims he's not concerned about the holdout, saying, "this is not a team about one person."

The Jaguars have two preseason games left before they open the season against the Vikings on Sept.9.