Former Vol Eric Ainge Enters Drug Rehab/Treatment Facility

CORTLAND - Jets quarterback Erik Ainge recently entered a drug treatment/rehab facility for "recreational issues," according to sources. The Jets placed the third-year pro on the reserve/non-football illness list before the start of training camp.

A team source told the Daily News that the Jets are "very disappointed" in what appears to be a relapse for Ainge and don't have a timetable for his return.

This would be Ainge's second strike under the league's substance abuse policies, which means that he would be subject to an eight-game suspension upon his return. Ainge, who hasn't taken a regular-season snap in his first three seasons, was suspended for four games without pay in 2008 for violating the league's policy on anabolic steroids and related substances.

Rex Ryan didn't provide an update on Ainge Tuesday other than to say that he hadn't spoken to GM Mike Tannenbaum about him in the past couple days. A team spokesman only confirmed that Ainge had an undisclosed illness.

On Monday night, Ainge posted this message on his Twitter page: "I am taking some personal time to address a non-football related illness. Thank you for all the love, thoughts, and concerns. I love you all."

The uncertainty surrounding Ainge's immediate future means that fellow QB Kellen Clemens may not be going anywhere. Mark Brunell's arrival fueled speculation that Clemens could be released. Now, it appears Clemens and Kevin O'Connell will battle for the final quarterback spot.

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