By Randy Lange

Eric Decker is a laid-back, confident athlete and a no-nonsense, no-holds-barred competitor. That’s the impression that comes through loud and clear when you speak with our just-signed free agent wide receiver.

“The Jets reached out, and really, I felt the most respect from them,” Decker told me in our phone conversation early this afternoon. “As a competitor, that’s something that’s important, that a team values you and respects you. I see a culture that’s something I want to be a part of with the Jets.”

A day and a half after doing just that with his signing late Wednesday night, the 6’3″, 214-pounder reflected on his long day at the Atlantic Health Complex with owner Woody Johnson, general manager John Idzik, head coach Rex Ryan and their staffs.

“I’ve seen the facility before,” he said, referencing the Denver Broncos’ week of Super Bowl preparation here in Florham Park, NJ, last month. “But just to get more of a feel for the facility and the community, I think it’s a great place, New York’s a great city, New Jersey is underrated. I think Woody and the front office treat their coaches and players first-class, they’ve got a rich tradition with the Jets, and I’m just happy to be a part of it.”

Specifically about his new head coach, Decker said Ryan didn’t disappoint.

“Seeing him from an outside perspective, Rex is a guy that has a lot of personality,” Decker said. “He’s a competitor. And just getting to know him the day of the visit, he’s genuine. He’s just a good guy, a good coach, a players’ coach. He cares about his guys, he does things to make you feel comfortable and confident so you can perform at the highest level. That’s important in this league.”

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