By DENNIS WASZAK Jr., AP Sports Writer

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) — John Idzik was introduced Thursday as the New York Jets' new general manager, replacing the fired Mike Tannenbaum.

The 52-year-old Idzik, formerly the Seahawks' vice president of football administration, insists that the Jets will "explore every measure to bring in talent and to compete." He adds that the NFL draft will be the team's "lifeline."

Idzik, wearing a green and black checkered tie, was hired last Friday after a two-week search by the Jets that included 10 candidates. Idzik had been with the Seahawks the past six seasons after previously working in the front offices of Tampa Bay and Arizona.

Idzik's primary strengths include managing salaries and the salary cap, but he has also worked in player personnel — a combination that attracted the Jets. Calling it a "very, very important day" for the team, owner Woody Johnson adds that Idzik has "the requisite" to help rebuild the team into a perennial playoff contender.

Idzik, who will have the final say on all personnel decisions, but he and Johnson often repeated that things will be a "collaborative" effort, which will include coach Rex Ryan.

"It will be the power of `we' over `me,'" Idzik said.

He will face immediate challenges with the Jets. He will have to make decisions on whether to keep quarterbacks Mark Sanchez, who is due $8.25 million in guarantees next season and would cost the Jets a $17.1 million cap hit if they cut him, and Tim Tebow, who is not expected back after one disappointing and unproductive season.

"We just need to take our time and evaluate Mark, along with everyone else," Idzik said.

New York is also about $19 million over the salary cap.

"I never saw the salary cap as a hindrance," said Idzik, adding that he's confident the Jets can have "fruitful" offseason.