FOR RELEASE: upon receipt
March 21, 2000

JETS’ AL GROH STATEMENT

RE: KEYSHAWN JOHNSON

New York Jets head coach Al Groh released a statement today regarding wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson:

"Keyshawn Johnson’s nonparticipation in the off-season program, in no way affects our decision making process involving fielding the most competitive team for the New York Jets for the immediate and long term future.

"The Jets have reworked numerous contracts this winter to get under the salary cap and yet continue to be under extreme economic duress with regard to the salary cap and its affect on the overall roster.

"After due consideration and in light of the fact that Keyshawn has two years remaining on his contract, our organization remains unable to address the contract of Keyshawn in the near or foreseeable short term future.

"However, as we have consistently done in the past, at the appropriate time we will address Keyshawn’s contract situation. While there has been considerable speculation about the possibility of trading Keyshawn, the Jets will not entertain any trade offers at this time.

"As in recent years, we remain committed to fielding the most competitive team possible on a year-to-year basis. We will continue to evaluate and consider all viable opportunities to improve our team. This statement should explicitly cover our position regarding this matter; thus we will have no further comment."