Source: Jets unlikely to sign DeSean Jackson

DeSean Jackson DeSean Jackson was released by the Eagles on Friday.
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Don’t expect the Jets to be players in the sweepstakes for DeSean Jackson.

Jackson, who was released by the Eagles on Friday, has been rumored to be a target of the Jets since trade rumors about him surfaced last week. Owner Woody Johnson admitted at last week’s owners meeting that the team was exploring the possibility of a trade.

But one team source, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told Metro New York that Jackson “is a long shot to land here.”

While the three-time Pro Bowler would add an instant playmaker to their wide receiver corps, Jackson may not be seen as a good fit with the team.

“He isn’t a ‘John Idzik guy’ – not what fits here right now” the source said, referring to the Jets’ general manager who has been restrained this offseason.

Jackson has character concerns, according to a report by ESPN.com. Another report on Friday by NJ.com claims he has ties with gangs. Jackson denied any claims of gang ties through a statement to ESPN.

Jackson, who had 1,332 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in 2013, could give the Jets a new dynamic as a potential target for quarterback Geno Smith or former Eagles teammate Mike Vick, who signed with the Jets as a free agent.

The deal could also affect cap space down the road.

“The team has shown great discipline this offseason, despite having plenty of cap space,” the source said. “This is done with some big contracts due down the road — players such as [Muhammad] Wilkerson and Jeremy Kerley, among others. If he is signed, then DeSean can cut into that flexibility. But more than that, he isn’t a good fit with what the Jets are trying to do right now. It isn’t to say that there are red flags about his character, but the team is proceeding cautiously and has done due diligence. There are no indications that, right now, the Jets will be a major player for his services. If there is interest, it would be an incentive-laden deal.”

Follow Jets beat writer Kristian Dyer on Twitter @KristianRDyer.