Joe Douglas says Jets have had “productive conversations” with Marcus Maye

[Broadway Joe]

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The view of the status of negotiations between the Jets and impending free agent safety Marcus Maye on a new contract appears to be different depending on where you’re standing.

Maye’s agent Erik Burkhardt responded to a tweet about the team’s cap space on Monday by writing that they “refuse to take care of their top player” after the 2017 second-rounder played out his rookie deal. That comment did not paint a picture of positive conversations with the Jets, but General Manager Joe Douglas sent a different message on Wednesday.

Douglas told reporters at a press conference that he has had “productive conversations” about a new deal with Maye’s camp. He said he respects Burkhardt and called the agent’s comments part of the negotiating process.

Maye’s preference would surely be to sign a long-term deal, but a franchise tag may come before next week’s deadline to ensure he remains with the team while also buying more time to talk about a multi-year contract.