BY NICK ST. DENIS
By most accounts, the New York Jets' training camp getaways to SUNY Cortland have been a success for both parties.
However, now that the Jets have an opportunity to explore other options, they're doing just that.
Kristian R. Dyer of Metro New York reported last summer that the Jets had "agreed in principal" with SUNY Cortland to extend their partnership another two years, as their contract had expired in 2013.
It was a soft agreement, and the Jets, who spent three of the last four preseasons in Cortland, are treating it as such.
"SUNY Cortland’s been great to us," Jets general manager John Idzik said in a statement. “They’re extremely hospitable and the campus is a terrific setting for our team to bond and prepare for the upcoming season.
"At this time, we simply wish to perform our due diligence to ensure we have the best possible environment for our camp."
SUNY Cortland president Erik Bitterbaum said his politically correct piece, as well.
"Our unique partnership with the Jets has been positive for the college, Central New York and, of course, the team," Bitterbaum said. “We fully expected the Jets to examine their options, as our agreement allows.
"And we are confident that our top-notch facilities, hard-working staff and welcoming community will remain an attractive option."
The Jets began their relationship with SUNY Cortland in 2010 and returned to the Upstate New York campus in 2012 and 2013. The league's labor negotiation's interfered with 2011 training camp, so the Jets stayed home that year.
Coach Rex Ryan has been big on the concept of getting away for bonding and comraderie purposes, but he's entering his second season under Idzik and might not have the same pull regarding those decisions.
Gang Green may still decide to leave Florham Park for training camp but could do it in a closer location that holds a bigger fanbase.
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