The New York Jets have signed unrestricted free agent linebacker Larry Izzo. The announcement was made by Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum.
Izzo (5'10", 228), a three time Pro Bowler (2000, 2002, 2004), joins the Jets after spending the last eight seasons with New England. Last season marked the eighth time in his career that he led his team in special teams tackles, with 14. Izzo has recorded 257 special teams tackles in 188 regular-season games. Since the beginning of the 1999 season, he has missed only one game, seeing action in 159 of 160 contests.
"I'm very excited about the opportunity to play for the Jets and Mr. [Woody] Johnson," Izzo said. "I'm grateful for the chance to be reunited with Coach [Mike] Westhoff, who played a key role early in my career, and I look forward to playing for Coach [Rex] Ryan as he brings his passionate, physical style of football to New York.
"Having spent my entire career in the AFC East, I'm very familiar with the Jets' incredibly loyal, knowledgeable and passionate fans and this is an amazing chance to work hard and make them proud."
A 13-year NFL veteran, Izzo began his NFL career as an undrafted free agent with the Miami Dolphins in 1996. He became an unrestricted free agent following the 2000 season and signed with the Patriots on Mar. 6, 2001.
