Could Antonio Cromartie return to the Jets for a third time?

According to a source with knowledge of the situation, the Jets are not against bringing back Cromartie, who was released Monday in a widely expected money-saving move. The source said the team is “leaving the door open” for a return.

The source asked not to be identified because he isn’t authorized to speak on behalf of the Jets.

Cromartie’s release from the Jets was foreseen for quite some time. Couple the cornerback’s struggles during the 2015 season with his $8 million unguaranteed cap hit this year, and the move made sense for New York.

Prior to Cromartie’s release, New York was estimated to have $13 million in cap space, depending on how much the cap raises this year. With his release, that figure is now more than $20 million.

The Jets have 20 unrestricted free agents, including starting quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick and defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson, and could use all the extra money they can get.

A four-time Pro Bowler, Cromartie has been one of the NFL’s better cornerbacks for a decade, intercepting 31 passes in 158 career games. While Cromartie is still serviceable player when healthy, it’s hard for the Jets to justify, considering their current cap situation, paying him $8 million a year.

Does that mean Cromartie could return at reduced rate? It will be a situation to monitor as the offseason unfolds.

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Connor Hughes is the New York Jets beat writer for the USA TODAY Sports Digital Properties. He can be reached on Twitter (@Connor_J_Hughes), or via email (chughes@usatoday.com)