Lucky Whitehead Reportedly Claimed off Waivers by Jets After Cowboys Release

The New York Jets reportedly have claimed receiver Lucky Whitehead off waivers, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. 

The Dallas Cowboys released Whitehead on Monday after it was discovered he had a warrant out for his arrest. However, the charges were dropped after the police department realized it was a case of mistaken identity.

Despite the fact he was not involved at all in the initial shoplifting charge, the Cowboys stood by their decision to waive the player.

"Yesterday we made a decision that was deemed to be in the best interest of the Dallas Cowboys," head coach Jason Garrett said, per Todd Archer of ESPN. "We're standing by that decision. We're going to move on.

Whitehead has been used mostly on special teams in his two seasons in the NFL, totaling just nine catches in 30 games. The undrafted free agent has otherwise been a valuable member on returns, though, averaging 25.6 yards per kick return and 6.9 yards per punt return in his career.

Meanwhile, the Jets are light on receivers after letting go of veterans Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker this offseason. Even after taking ArDarius Stewart and Chad Hansen in the NFL draft, the Jets can provide an opportunity for Whitehead to gain offensive playing time.

At the very least, the 25-year-old should be able to maintain his special teams role for a franchise that struggled to find consistency in that area last season.