Fans of the Jets were frustrated and annoyed when John Abraham could not make it back to the field during the stretch run or for the two playoff games because of sprained ligaments in his right knee. The Pro Bowl defensive end said he had to consider his future when determining when to come back.

It now appears Abraham will come back to the Jets. Yesterday the team slapped the franchise tag on him, meaning at the moment he’s got a one-year contract worth $6.7 million, which is the average of the five highest-paid defensive ends in the NFL.

No one questions Abraham’s ability or effectiveness when he’s in the game. In the first 12 games last season, he led the league with 9½ sacks before missing the last four games and the postseason. The Jets now can try to negotiate a long-term deal with Abraham or else let him play out the year.

Abraham can negotiate with other teams, with the Jets owning the right to match any offer. If he signs elsewhere, the Jets will receive two first-round draft picks. That’s a hefty price to pay, and it’s unlikely any team will pay it.

“John has been a tremendous player for us and we are appreciative of his efforts,” GM Terry Bradway said. “He’ll be a big part of our defense next year.”