Jets, S Pool agree in principle to 1-year deal

Mar 12, 2010 - 3:33 AM By DENNIS WASZAK Jr. AP Sports Writer

NEW YORK(AP) -- The New York Jets and safety Brodney Pool, whose career appeared to be threatened by head injuries, agreed in principle to a one-year contract Thursday worth $1.3 million.

The deal includes $1.2 million guaranteed, agent Ben Dogra told The Associated Press.

Pool wasn't given a second-round tender by Cleveland last week, making him an unrestricted free agent.

"He's going to sign there and have a great opportunity to play in a terrific defense under Rex Ryan," Dogra said. "It was the No. 1 place for him and hopefully it's the first year of many for him there as a New York Jet."

The 25-year-old Pool gives the Jets a replacement for Kerry Rhodes, whom they traded to Arizona last weekend - as long as Pool remains healthy. He has been cleared to play, but Pool missed Cleveland's final five games last season after sustaining what reportedly was at least his fourth known concussion - a number Dogra disputes.

"He is healthy and ready to go," Dogra said. "Despite reports to the contrary, Brodney only had one known concussion. He is excited about the opportunity to play for the Jets and making a contribution to the No. 1 defense in the NFL."

Pool, a second-round pick out of Oklahoma in 2005, had 50 tackles, four interceptions and a sack before being injured at Cincinnati in Week 12. He has 11 interceptions and four sacks in five seasons, all with the Browns.

Pool holds the Browns' franchise record for longest interception return, going 100 yards for a score against the Baltimore Ravens in 2007.