Jets waive QB O'Connell, Clemens appears safe
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) The New York Jets have waived backup quarterback Kevin O'Connell, likely clearing the way for Kellen Clemens to make the team.
O'Connell was acquired last September from Detroit in a trade. He was competing with Clemens for the No. 3 job behind starter Mark Sanchez and backup Mark Brunell. Clemens outplayed O'Connell in the preseason, and coach Rex Ryan said Monday that Clemens had a ``pretty strong chance'' of making the opening day roster.
The move Tuesday puts the Jets at 74 players - one below the limit teams need to reach by the end of the day.
O'Connell was a third-round draft pick by New England out of San Diego State in 2008. He was cut last offseason and claimed off waivers by Detroit.
