By Kenny Porpora
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
MANHATTAN — NFL quarterback killer Jason Taylor became the New York Jets' latest high-profile pickup after signing a two-year contract with his longtime rival.
The league's active sack leader is only guaranteed $1.75 million his first year in a deal laced with incentives for the 35-year-old.
The former Miami Dolphin's presence on the roster considerably bolsters the team's defense, despite Taylor's history of being offensive to New York fans while playing for their division rival.
His disrespect of Jets fans throughout the years has helped him earn a reputation as one of their most reviled enemies.
"Do I expect them to hate me some? Sure," Taylor, 35, told the Associated Press. "We've had a long history of going back-and-forth. We lost a lot of games to those guys for a few years. That wasn't fun. I was a big boy, and I always came back and added more fuel to it. It's a rivalry. That's the way it's supposed to be."
The move follows on the signings of such marquee players as running back LaDainian Tomlinson and wide receiver Santonio Holmes.
This latest acquisition reaffirms the Jets defense as one of the best in football and places them in prime position to chase the Super Bowl title that has eluded them for more than 40 years.
"Clearly, this is one of the premier players in the game, one of the premier pass-rushers in the game" Jets coach Rex Ryan told ESPN.com. "We expect Jason to play a bunch and be a major contributor to our defense."
And while Jets fans may need some time to warm to Taylor, Jets players are excited about his arrival.
"I think he will be a great addition to the team with his athleticism, experience and wisdom," nose tackle Kris Jenkins told the AP. "We have had time to get past the fishy smell of his past, and now he will be enveloped with the fragrant smell of Jet fuel."
Fans can get an early look at Gang Green's newest additions in HBO's documentary series "Hard Knocks," which will follow the team throughout training camp.
