The New York Jets, in an effort to get under the NFL salary cap, have released four players and waived another on Tuesday.

Among those released are linebackers Bart Scott and Calvin Pace, safety Eric Smith and tackle Jason Smith. The Jets also waived fullback/tight end Josh Baker.

The Jets issued a statement from Coach Rex Ryan on the transactions.

“Every one of these players was a major contributor to our football team,” Ryan said. “I was very impressed with Jason this past season while Bart, Calvin and Eric have been an instrumental part of our defense for the past four years. Josh came in as an undrafted free agent and earned a spot on our roster. They have the work ethic and attitude that you look for in players and they will always be New York Jets. It was an honor to coach each of these men. They are tremendous people as well as outstanding football players.”

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Terry McCormick covers the Titans for TitanInsider.com