Out routes: Nicks needs fresh start Will Hakeem Nicks be paid like a 1,000-yard WR?By Michael Middlehurst USA TodayDec 21st, 2013 The NFL season is nearing its end, and several players could be making their last stands with their respective teams. Out Routes takes a look at players who could be in for a change of scenery this off-season.
WR Hakeem Nicks, Giants: The Giants’ strained relationship with Nicks dates back to his refusal to attend the team’s off-season workout program, and now it might be beyond repair. Nicks has 50 catches for 794 yards, but he hasn’t made it into the end zone all season. Despite two down seasons, he’ll likely want to be paid like the 1,000-yard receiver he was in 2010 and 2011. The Giants have seen enough from 2012 second-round draft pick Rueben Randle to let Nicks walk in free agency. For Nicks, 25, a new environment might be a necessary step for getting his career back on track. 
DE Michael Johnson, Bengals: The Bengals have decided on the future of their defensive line, and it appears Johnson won’t be part of those long-term plans. Defensive end Carlos Dunlap signed a well-deserved extension in July, and the Bengals followed up by locking down defensive tackle Geno Atkins. Cincinnati made those moves in part to the long-term flexibility afforded by Michael Johnson receiving the franchise tag that off-season. Justifying a third hefty contract on the line would have been a difficult proposition for the Bengals, and Johnson’s paltry production (3 sacks this year after 11.5 last season) have all but ruled out a return. But Johnson, 26, is still an athletic pass-rusher who could be a bargain for another team if he’ll accept a short-term deal. 
DE Anthony Spencer, Dallas Cowboys: Having already received the franchise tag twice, Spencer might have missed his opportunity for a multiple-year deal. Spencer didn’t get a chance to make his case this year, playing in just one game before needing season-ending microfracture surgery. He had his best season a year ago with 11 sacks, but what can the Cowboys comfortably offer him after his injury? Re-signing Jason Hatcher should be the Cowboys’ top priority along the defensive line. Spencer would be worth keeping on a short-term deal, but he doesn’t need to be a part of the Cowboys’ defensive overhaul.
CB Mike Jenkins, Oakland Raiders: Jenkins and Tracy Porter were brought in to add some much needed experience to a young secondary, but the Raiders’ pass defense still ranks 24th in the league. Jenkins will never return to his 2009 Pro Bowl form, but at this point he’s not worth the Raiders’ time and investment. Phillip Adams and D.J. Hayden deserve the bulk of the work at cornerback next year. Another team might be willing to give Jenkins a one-year trial like the Raiders did this year. But his days as a starter are likely numbered.
