Jets land Pro Bowl defensive tackle

The New York Jets made a huge splash on the first day of free agency by trading for a big guy to put in the middle of their defensive line.

The Jets acquired three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kris Jenkins from the Carolina Panthers on Friday for third- and fifth-round draft picks. The 6-foot-4, 349-pound Jenkins will move to nose tackle in the Jets’ 3-4 defensive scheme.

Jenkins’ acquisition started a busy day for the Jets, who also traded linebacker Jonathan Vilma to the New Orleans Saints for a fourth-round pick in 2008.

Also, the Jets signed defensive tackle Sione Pouha to a three-year contract extension.

After trading for Jenkins, the Jets came to terms with him on a new five-year contract worth $35 million, including $20 million in guaranteed money.

Seahawks lose Brown

One free agent made a visit to Seattle but left town without a contract. Another free agent looks like he’s left town for good.

On what was supposed to be a quiet first full day of NFL free agency for the Seahawks, the team still found a way to make news.

A few hours after tight end Alge Crumpler flew back to Atlanta, Seahawks kicker Josh Brown reportedly agreed to terms on a deal with the St. Louis Rams.

Also for St. Louis, receiver Isaac Bruce agreed to a two-year deal with San Francisco one day after the Rams released one of the most prolific receivers in NFL history.

Patriots make moves

The New England Patriots re-signed linebacker Tedy Bruschi, also agreed to deals with long snapper Lonie Paxton and wide receiver Kelley Washington and released tight end Kyle Brady.

Faulk passes drug test

New England Patriots running back Kevin Faulk passed a drug test this week after he was cited for marijuana possession while going into a concert, his agent said.

Retiree benefits increased

The NFL and its players union, which have been under fire for their policy toward retired players, have modified their disability program and doubled the benefits in one part of it.

The new plan includes doubling the payment for non-football “total and permanent” disability for retired players from $20,000 a year to $40,000.