Jets RB Leon Washington on field for team’s first practice of training camp

Jets RB Washington reports for camp

CORTLAND, N.Y. — New York Jets running back Leon Washington reported to the team and participated in drills Friday during the first practice of training camp.

Washington was a no-show when the rest of the team checked into the players’ dormitory Thursday because of a contract dispute. He reported late Thursday night — without a new deal — and was in his room by the time coach Rex Ryan did a bed check.

“I saw him and brought him his playbook,” Ryan said. “It was good to see him. It was like, ‘Hey, Leon!’”

Washington, a Pro Bowl selection last season as a kick returner, didn’t participate in regular 11-on-11 or 7-on-7 practices because he completed the team’s running test at 6 a.m.

“We purposely held Leon out of drills and we’ll hold him out this afternoon as well because he took the running test,” Ryan said. “That’s a day’s work right there. We’re being very cautious.”

Washington didn’t speak to the media after the morning practice. Washington’s agent, Alvin Keels, said on his Twitter page that he and Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum were still working to get a deal done.

“Leon Washington is at practice 2day as we continue to try to nail down the business side of things,” he wrote. “He is a Jet and has put the team b4 self. Let’s hope we can come to an agreement that will keep him in the green & white for a long time. Both sides are motivated to make it happen.”

The 26-year-old Washington, due to earn $535,000 this season, is in the final year of his rookie deal and is believed to be looking for about $6 million a year. He sat out the first three weeks of organized team activities before returning in minicamp “in good faith.”

“We need Leon,” Ryan said. “The success we’re going to have is going to be with Leon in there. It’s funny, those great competitors, it’s hard to keep them away.”

With Washington at SUNY Cortland, the Jets now have all of their players at camp.

Pro Bowl running back Thomas Jones reported on time and fully participated in practice despite also sitting out voluntary workouts amid a contract dispute.

He’s entering the third year of a four-year, $20 million deal. The contract was front-loaded with $13.1 million over the first two seasons, and he’s scheduled to make only $900,000 in base salary this season.

Jones spoke to reporters for the first time since the end of the last season, but wouldn’t shed any light on his contract.

“I’m not discussing any contract situations. Period,” Jones said. “I’m here at training camp right now. The offseason is done. It’s the season and I’m focused on now.”

Jones is due a $3 million roster bonus next March, so the 30-year-old running back is likely seeking some long-term financial security.

“I’m here, I’m happy,” Jones said. “I’m here for camp. I’m excited about the season and excited about Rex. This is where I need to be.”