Marcus

Dixon

A key part of the Jets’ defensive interior, DeVito’s snaps will have to be picked up by NT Kenrick Ellis and DE Marcus Dixon. At 346 pounds Ellis is a massive run-plugger, but his conditioning will be an issue. Dixon, on the other hand, will be playing out of position. The only remaining backup, DE Ropati Pitoitua (knee), is questionable for Sunday. With the line suddenly shook up, Ryan Mathews is shaping up to be an excellent play.

There’s not yet a timetable for a return. After a disappointing first-half, Dixon picked up his play in the final month as a rotational end. He’ll return to the same role in 2012.

We were surprised the Jets let the three-game 2011 starter go in favor of Isaako Aaitui late last week. They’ve now reversed the move, releasing Aaitui.

It’s a mild surprise after Dixon appeared in all 16 games last season, notching 16 tackles and 1.5 sacks as he came on strong in the second half. Isaako Aaitui is taking his roster spot.

It’s the second time this month the Jets have parted ways with Dixon. He was active all three weeks after notching 16 tackles and 1.5 sacks in 16 games a season ago. Dixon could be brought back as a rotational end later in the year. The Jets have only three sacks through three games.

Dixon has spent parts of the last three seasons with the Jets, appearing in three 2012 games before being let go in late September. Kansas City’s defensive end jobs appear wide open at the moment with Glenn Dorsey set for free agency and Tyson Jackson a certain cap casualty. Dixon has a history with new Chiefs DC Bob Sutton from their New York days.

The Titans need an extra body along the defensive line with Sammie Lee Hill (ankle) expected to miss at least Week 3.

The Chiefs gave Dixon a shot thanks to his relationship with DC Bob Sutton from their days together with the Jets. He could get a look as a rotational end from another 3-4 defense.

Holley, winner of Michael Irvin’s reality show 4th and Long, and Johnson will enter the offseason as the Cowboys’ sixth and seventh receivers. Dixon has bulked up and will be in the mix for a roster spot this summer.

We’ve heard rumblings that the Jets are very high on Dixon despite his extremely limited playing experience; he only appeared in three games last season. Rex Ryan’s defense doesn’t require All-Pro types at 3-4 defensive end, however, and Dixon should be well versed in the scheme by now. He could help New York replace Shaun Ellis if Ellis leaves in free agency.