Some casual observers might be surprised that an alternative investment manager would become interested in underwriting securities offerings and earning commissions, rather than the more lucrative carried interest that has become the Holy Grail for many financial professionals.

FORBES: Private Equity Turns its Eyes towards Underwriting Fees

For a team (such as the Jets) that might be interested in acquiring Smith, it will then become imperative to answer a core question about his career: Is his recent improvement merely the product of Harbaugh's influence?

WSJ: Is the Jets' Salvation on the Super Bowl Sideline?