The New York Jets released offensive tackle Jason Smith, linebackers Calvin Pace and Bart Scott, and safety Eric Smith, creating about $35 million in salary cap space. 

“Every one of these players was a major contributor to our football team,” said coach Rex Ryan in a statement. “I was very impressed with Jason this past season while Bart, Calvin and Eric have been an instrumental part of our defense for the past four years. Josh came in as an undrafted free agent and earned a spot on our roster.

They have the work ethic and attitude that you look for in players and they will always be New York Jets. It was an honor to coach each of these men. They are tremendous people as well as outstanding football players.”

Jason Smith was drafted second overall in 2009 by the St. Louis Rams. He didn’t start a game for the Jets last season, but cost them $12 million. Pace earned slightly more than $11.5 million and Scott came in at $8.65 million. Releasing Eric Smith saves $3 million.
The Jets were $25 million over the 2013 salary-cap limit of about $120 million.

Scott and Pace joined the team as high-profile free agents essential to Ryan’s 3-4 defense and combined with Smith to start a total of 167 games in New York.

via Sports Xchange