But what does that get them beyond a one-and-out in the playoffs?

Nothing.

And that's the point. Especially when you compare them to the teams they think are their competition — the Patriots and Giants.

Sure, they made a splash Thursday. Do the Giants care? Super Bowl rings are far more rewarding than tabloid headlines. The Patriots? Bill Belichick's response, whenever it comes, will be something like this: "Brett Favre. Great player. Hall of Famer. Makes them tougher. Always a tough game when we play them. All games in the National Football League are tough."

That doesn't mean that the Patriots' run of 10 wins in their last 11 games with the Jets will end.

That's really why the deal is all wrong for the Jets. As were all those offseason signings, because a marginal shot at a playoff berth isn't worth it for a rebuilding team.

Yes, New England gave up draft picks to obtain Randy Moss and Wes Welker last season to augment a team with title expectations. It got them the first 16-0 regular-season record ever before they fell victim to one of the biggest upsets in Super Bowl history.

Cleveland did the same thing this year, trading away two high draft picks to shore up the middle of their defensive line. It might not get the Browns a title this year, but they already have built a solid nucleus through the draft and have a solid future.

The Jets?

Assume Favre gets them to the playoffs this season. And assume that Clemens develops by sitting behind Favre and watching him.

They still will reach the 40th anniversary of their only Super Bowl victory without another title.

And without much hope of another in the foreseeable future.

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