The New York Jets have crossed former Oakland Raiders

Determined or not, Tomlinson's role remains undefined. He will compete with second-year running back Shonn Greene for a starting spot on the roster. Greene averaged five yards per carry for a total of 540 yards and two touchdowns in 2009.

While Greene is the current favorite to win the No. 1 job, Tomlinson maintains that starting isn't necessarily a priority. He expressed willingness to play whatever role the team required of him.

"Whatever they need me to do, whether it's catching the ball out of the backfield, whether it's picking up blitzing linebackers or running draw plays or screens or what have you," Tomlinson said.

The fact that New York is the biggest media market in the nation and the Jets are the focus of this year's edition of HBO's Hard Knocks means more scrutiny. With the already built-in distractions that come with playing in New York Jets, Tomlinson's less-than-modest guarantee is a bit surprising.

But is it realistic?

The Jets' running back trio of Greene, Thomas Jones and Leon Washington led the NFL in rushing last season.

The Jets added several high-profile players in addition to Tomlinson, including Santonio Holmes, Jason Taylor and Antonio Cromartie. With those additions, some foresee potential locker-room problems. But personalities aside, the Jets have gained a better pass rush, a stronger secondary and a more diverse offense.

The Jets had the No. 1 defense in the NFL last season, and it should be just as good, if not better, in 2010. Darrelle Revis is the game's best corner, Taylor can enhance the pass rush and Cromartie and Kyle Wilson give coach Rex Ryan more of an ability to blitz.

 

 The New York Jets have crossed former Oakland Raiders bust JaMarcus Russell off their list of potential free agents in the wake of his arrest for possession of a controlled substance, according to the New York Daily News.

 

Per the report, the Jets had recently made an exploratory call to Russell's agent.

 

Now, they have no interest in Russell.

 

Russell has a career 65.2 passer rating.

 

He was caught with codeine syrup today during the arrest at his Mobile, Ala., home during an undercover investigation.

 

He's free on $2,500 bail.

 

He has a Wednesday bond hearing and a July 20 court date.

 

Russell struggled with his weight, decision-making and accuracy when he played for the Raiders.