New York Jets Rumors: Jets Need to Forget About Braylon Edwards

Mike Tannenbaum of the New York Jets has reportedly not ruled out bringing Braylon Edwards back into the fold for 2012—a move that would be more trouble than it's worth.

Per Newsday's Bob Glauber via his Twitter account:

"

Tannenbaum cited Braylon Edwards' intense practice habits as one of his best attributes. "I would not rule him out."

— Bob Glauber (@BobGlauber) April 19, 2012"

While intense practice habits could potentially be a good thing for the beleaguered Jets locker room, the Jets need to forget about Edwards. 

Edwards is recovering from a knee injury that plagued him all of last year with the San Francisco 49ers.

Per ESPN, he had minor surgery in September of 2011 and ended up missing multiple games. When he was in the lineup, Edwards looked generally lost and showed a complete lack of focus, prompting the 49ers to ultimately release him before the end of the season.

Edwards made a statement about the release, per SFGate.com:

"

I was released today by the 49ers due to my injury that required more time to rehab and hasn’t allowed me to re-sync with the offense. I wish the 49ers organization the best of luck during the Playoffs. I will be working hard this off season to strengthen my knee and prepare for the 2012 season. Thanks for your continued support and for being such loyal fans.

"

Unfortunately, he's still rehabbing that same knee. 

Per Edwards' Twitter account on March 25, 2012:

"

#Rehab. The road to recovery can sometimes be a long rough one but nothing's too hard with God. Let's Go!!! *Turns Up Music*

"

"— Braylon Edwards (@OfficialBraylon) March 21, 2012"

It's obvious that Edwards is still passionate about playing the game. The trouble is that what was supposed to be a minor issue way back in September of 2011 is still lingering today.

Furthermore, it's been a long while since Edwards had a big-time impact for any team. 

Since his breakout season of 2007 when he caught 16 touchdown passes for the Cleveland Browns, Edwards hasn't come close to playing at the same elite level.

In the five years since, he is averaging 34 catches for 528 yards and less than three touchdowns a year. 

If the Jets want to sign a veteran wide receiver, they should look no further than the man they had last year: Plaxico Burress. He is healthy and shouldn't be too expensive, given the fact that he's still on the market.

Edwards needs to be left in the past. His knee is a huge concern and his production isn't what it once was.

The Jets need to move forward, and the best course of action will be for them to draft one of the talented receivers coming out of this year's deep draft class.

Follow @JesseReed78