Jets Will Release Thomas Jones On March 5

The Jets announced today that they will release RB Thomas Jones on Friday - the first day free-agents can sign with new clubs.

“We have informed Thomas and his representatives that we will release him on March 5,” general manager Mike Tannenbaum said in a statement released by the club. “Thomas joined us three years ago and has been a productive, passionate leader both on and off the field who has served as a positive influence for our younger players. We were fortunate to acquire him and we wish him the best.”

Jones, 31, ran for career-highs of 1,402 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2009. He also set the franchise single-game rushing mark with 210 yards against the Bills in a Week 6 overtime loss.

“When I got here, Thomas immediately became one of my guys. He had one of his best years last season — might have been his best,” said Jets head coach Rex Ryan. “I have a tremendous amount of respect for him as a player and a person. As I said the other day, this is one of the tough decisions we had to make for our organization.”

Jones was set to make $2.8 million in 2010, in addition to a $3 million roster bonus due next week. The 10-year veteran became expendable when rookie RB Shonn Greene emerged as a No. 1 back during the Jets’ surprising run to the AFC Championship Game.

The Jets, who are banking on RB Leon Washington bouncing back from the broken leg he suffered last season, will seek to replace Jones through free-agency and the draft.