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GM: Jets open to trade possibilities

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Cornerback Darrelle Revis could be entering his final week as a member of the New York Jets. His new boss, general manager John Idzik, said nothing Wednesday to change that perception.

While refusing to acknowledge he's engaged in trade talks with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Idzik indicated he's open to trading Revis, who has only one year remaining on his contract.

"Yeah, we would definitely look at any trade possibilities and see if it benefits the Jets," said Idzik, addressing questions regarding Revis at the team's pre-draft news conference.

A league source confirmed the Jets remain very interested in trading Revis.

Idzik declined to say if Revis will be on the team in 2013. Perhaps more importantly, he didn't say if he wants the star corner on the Jets.

"I can't tell you," he said. "I don't like to look too far ahead, I really don't."

Idzik also remained noncommittal about quarterback Tim Tebow, another player whose days appear to be numbered. Tebow, like Revis, is participating in voluntary workouts, but he's on the trading block. The Jets have been trying to deal him for the better part of the offseason.

It "shouldn't be surprising" that Tebow still is on the roster, Idzik said. But he wouldn't go so far as to say Tebow will be involved in the quarterback competition.

"I don't want to put the cart before the horse," he said, adding, "I'm not saying he is, I'm not saying he isn't. I'm just saying let's let it play out."

Idzik wasn't forthcoming on any topics, although he did confirm that he had a "nice talk" with Revis on Monday, the first day of the offseason program. It was their first face-to-face meeting.

The GM also said he's "pleased" with the progress Revis is making with his surgically repaired knee.

It's getting down to crunch time for the Jets and the Buccaneers, Revis' only suitor. The Tampa Bay Times reported Wednesday that the Bucs consider the Jets' asking price too high.

The Bucs are willing to trade their first-round pick (13th overall), but they're balking at the Jets' reported demand for two additional draft picks (third- and fifth-round choices).

With the draft only eight days away, the Jets have to make a potential franchise-changing decision.

Owner Woody Johnson is reluctant to give Revis a long-term contract extension, according to sources. That would leave two options: Trade him, or let him play out the season and risk losing him with nothing in return. He will be an unrestricted free agent in 2014 because the Jets are prohibited from using the franchise tag, per a clause in his contract.

Idzik's strategy could be to wait until the 11th hour before the draft, trying to squeeze more out of the Bucs and perhaps hoping another suitor emerges.

Idzik, preparing for his first draft with the Jets, insisted he's not worried about how he will be perceived if he trades his best player.

"Any decision we make, especially those of a very high magnitude, we are going to put a lot of thought into it," he said. "Yes, I turn the card in -- you're right, that's different -- but it's the accumulation of a lot of opinions."

Much to his chagrin, Revis reported to the offseason program. He preferred to remain in Arizona, where he trains in the offseason, to continue his rehab and avoid the distraction of being with the team during trade talks.

Revis asked to be excused for two weeks, sources said, but he didn't receive any slack from the Jets. He has $3 million in bonus money tied to participation in voluntary workouts.

"Whatever is best for Darrelle and his rehab, the Jets will wholeheartedly support," said Idzik, adding that the team wants to be involved in his rehab.

On Monday, Revis underwent an MRI exam. He's on schedule in his rehab, according to a source, who said Revis was cleared for running without restriction.