Brandon Marshall is coming off his worst statistical season since he was a rookie in 2006. And it came at an inopportune juncture of his career.
The 32-year-old Marshall is slated to make $7.5 million next season, but none of that money is guaranteed. The Jets could save it all by cutting Marshall in the offseason.
Marshall, though, has every intention of returning to Gang Green — even if that means taking a pay cut.
"I would love to be back," Marshall said Monday in Florham Park. "It's not about the money anymore. It's all about winning. I know what I'm worth. I think this team knows what I'm worth as far as the organization. But it's not about the money. I'm good. I'm good with the money. I just want to win. That's all I want to do."
When asked if he'd consider coming back to the Jets for less money, Marshall said, "I'll play for free. My bills are paid."
Marshall finished 2016 with 59 catches for 788 yards and three touchdowns. It was just the third time in his career he totaled fewer than 1,000 receiving yards. And it was the only season other than his rookie campaign in which he failed to haul in 60 catches.
"I'm extremely confident that I'm still an elite receiver," Marshall said.
Marshall divulged Monday that he was dealing with both an MCL sprain in his knee and a fifth metatarsal injury in his foot for virtually the entire season. He suffered the injuries in a Week 2 win over the Bills when he was tackled from behind and twisted his leg. Marshall said the foot problem was the bigger of the two issues.
Still, Marshall refused to use the ailments as an excuse. He called this season the "most frustrating year" of his career.
"The numbers wasn't there. That's new for me," Marshall said. "This is a year that most receivers can hang their hat on. Not for me. The bar is set high, and it's unacceptable."
Marshall has been one of the most productive receivers in the NFL during his 11-year career. But he has never played in a playoff game. It's a maddening reality that hangs over Marshall's head, and he said Monday we wouldn't be satisfied with his career if he retires without a postseason appearance.
Marshall said he wants to play until he's 38 or 39 years old.
"My only motive is to win ballgames," Marshall said. "I'm tired of going home right after the season. I'm tired of watching the playoffs on my couch. I'm tired of it. And it's just a frustrating year. It's been a frustrating career from that aspect, and hopefully things change moving forward."
