2014 NFL free agency rumors: Jets 'badly' want Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie

Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie was the Broncos' best cornerback last season. (Jack Dempsey/AP) The New York Jets need to improve their secondary with cornerback

Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie was the Broncos' best cornerback last season. (Jack Dempsey/AP)

The New York Jets need to improve their secondary with cornerback Antonio Cromartie testing free agency and first-round pick Dee Milliner struggling during his rookie campaign, and they believe one free agent could solve their woes.

According to Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News, the Jets and head coach Rex Ryan "badly" want to sign free agent corner Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.

Rodgers-Cromartie is considered an "ideal fit" for Ryan's defensive scheme, which requires players to excel in press-man coverage. With his speed and skillset, Rodgers-Cromartie would be a huge upgrade over both Cromartie and Milliner.

The market has been lukewarm for Rodgers-Cromartie (outside of the Denver Broncos), but those concerns seem to focus more on his dedication and passion for the game.

MORE: 2014 NFL free agent tracker | NFL mock draft database: SI’s experts weigh in

Prior to the Broncos Super Bowl XLVIII match up against the Seattle Seahawks, Rodgers-Cromartie hinted about retirement and that may have been the moment that caused some teams to shy away.