The New York Jets signed cornerback E.J. Underwood to the practice squad and released cornerback Manny Collins from the practice squad. The announcement was made by Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum.
Underwood (6'1", 185) was originally signed by the New York Giants as a rookie free agent on May 13, 2006. He spent the 2006 season on injured reserve and was signed to the Giants practice squad on Sept. 2 before being released on Oct. 8.
The Hamilton, Ohio, native played three years at Ohio State before transferring to Pikeville College (NAIA). In 29 games (eight starts) at Ohio State, he recorded 54 tackles with 20 solos and one pass defensed and was a member of the Buckeyes' 2002 national championship team.
In one season at Pikeville, Underwood played in 10 games, tallying 49 tackles (35 solos) with one interception, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and one blocked kick. He also caught four passes for 77 yards and returned punts and kickoffs, including one 77-yard punt return for a touchdown.
Collins (5'10", 190) was signed by the Jets as an undrafted rookie free agent Aug. 2, was waived on Sept. 1, then was signed to the Jets practice squad Sept. 3. He recorded 68 tackles, two interceptions and four fumble recoveries over four seasons at Rutgers University.
