With PED suspension over, WR Jeremy Kerley waived by Jets

Wide receiver Jeremy Kerley, who rejoined the New York Jets last week upon returning from a four-game league suspension, was waived Monday by the team.

Kerley's one-week roster exemption expired at 4 p.m. Monday. Instead of activating him to the 53-man roster, the Jets decided to part ways with the veteran receiver and punt returner.

He was the Jets' No. 3 receiver until Nov. 6, when he was suspended for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs. Kerley claimed he didn't knowingly take any illegal substances, saying last week that "a ghost" was responsible for his positive test.

During the suspension, the Jets used rookies Chad Hansen and ArDarius Stewart in the receiver rotation. Now that they're eliminated from contention, the Jets' goal is to continue to develop the young players.

Kerley, 29, a fifth-round pick of the Jets in 2011, re-signed on Sept. 5 after being released by the San Francisco 49ers. He finished the season with 22 catches, 217 yards and one touchdown.

In other news, the Jets still haven't made a decision on defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson, who was benched Sunday after showing up late on Friday morning to a meeting. Wilkerson didn't make the trip to New Orleans over the weekend. Upon being told of his benching, he walked out of the facility, a source said.

Wilkerson, who has a history of being late and missing meetings, could be deactivated for the final two games. On Monday, coach Todd Bowles was noncommittal, saying they're "still working through some things."

Bowles said Wilkerson was at the team facility on Monday, but he wouldn't say if the former Pro Bowl player will rejoin the team. Bowles called it "an internal matter," adding that the front office is involved.

Wilkerson isn't expected to be with the team next season. His 2018 salary ($16.8 million) is guaranteed against injury, so it could be risky to play him in the final two games. A severe injury could put the Jets on the hook for the salary.