Earlier today, Jets coach Rex Ryan said there was a defensive back they would "target," after Jim Leonhard was placed on injured reserve this weekend and James Ihedigbo sustained a high ankle sprain and MCL injury last night.

That player was Keith Fitzhugh: a Mississippi State grad who was added by the Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2009, signed off their practice squad by the Ravens before the playoffs and then brought back by the Jets in training camp this summer.

But when Jets director of pro personnel Brendan Prophett called this afternoon, Fitzhugh respectfully turned the team down.

"I told them I'm very thankful for the opportunity," Fitzhugh said. "But right now, being that it would be for just a couple weeks, I feel that I'd rather stay with a secure company and job, somewhere I know I could have long-term employment."

Fitzhugh is a conductor for the Norfolk Southern railroad, a job he has held since he was released by the Jets on Sept. 4. He said several times he is thankful for his job and enjoys it.

Steady employment, which is not the nature of the NFL, is important to him because he helps support his parents. His father, Keith Fitzhugh, Sr., is disabled and unable to work.

"Being unemployed is not a good feeling," Fitzhugh said. "It's a lonely feeling. I'd rather be somewhere safe and have a great foundation."

Fitzhugh's agent, Daniel Rose, said turning down the Jets was a tough decision for his client, especially with the team in good position to make the playoffs. But Rose said Fitzhugh puts his family first.

"The kid has more heart than anybody I know," Rose said. "This is his dream, to play. I don't think this is the last you've heard of Keith Fitzhugh."

The Jets will look elsewhere for a new safety. Other options are Emanuel Cook and Don Warren, who were with the team in training camp.

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The Dolphins are taking a unique approach to this weekend's road trip: they will fly to New Jersey Friday morning and will practice at the Giants' practice facility later that afternoon.

The team contacted the Giants to see if they could use their indoor facility in East Rutherford after they had finished practicing Friday. The Giants obliged, knowing they would appreciate the same hospitality if the situation were reversed. The Dolphins will dress and meet at their nearby hotel, and will then be bused to the Giants' fieldhouse.