The New York Jets have made significant strides in solidifying their roster by securing a major extension with wide receiver Garrett Wilson. This deal, reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, is a noteworthy four-year agreement worth $130 million, with a hefty $90 million guaranteed. That breaks down to an impressive average annual value of $32.5 million, making Wilson the first wideout in NFL history to command such a figure after just three seasons in the league.
With the Jets exercising Wilson’s fifth-year option earlier this year, he’s now firmly under contract through 2030. This partnership marks a pivotal moment for the Jets, as it’s the first time a former Day 1 selection has received an extension before their fourth season during the rookie wage scale era. It signifies the team’s commitment to rebuilding and investing in their key talents.
Diving deeper into the specifics of Wilson’s contract, the wideout will receive a signing bonus of $13.75 million, along with a $20 million option bonus in the second year and an additional $10 million option bonus in Year 3. This structure not only rewards Wilson now but sets him up for substantial future earnings, underscoring the high expectations the Jets have for his continued development as a premier receiving option.
Since being drafted, Wilson has consistently shown why he’s a cornerstone of the Jets’ offense. Despite the challenges posed by a revolving door of quarterbacks, he has never missed a game and has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first three seasons. His reception totals have seen a steady climb—83 in his rookie year to 101 last season—illustrating his growing importance within the Jets’ offensive scheme.
The dynamics of the Jets’ offensive lineup have certainly shifted, particularly with the brief tenure of Aaron Rodgers. During the 2023 season, Wilson played only four snaps alongside the future Hall of Famer, who played a full season afterward. As both players looked to connect, Wilson’s role became complicated with the midseason acquisition of Davante Adams, altering the distribution of targets. However, Wilson made it clear in the offseason that he wanted to remain a central figure as the team turns the page following Rodgers’ departure.
The Jets are undergoing a transformative period with new leadership under head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey, marking a fresh start for the franchise. Contract discussions with Wilson had been ongoing, but the recent negotiations concluded smoothly, enabling both player and management to avoid potential holdout drama as training camp approaches.
Looking ahead, the Jets have their sights set on securing a long-term deal for cornerback Sauce Gardner. His extension is anticipated to surpass the $30 million annual mark, a figure recently established by Derek Stingley, who was picked ahead of Gardner in the 2022 draft. Solidifying contracts for both Wilson and Gardner would create a strong foundation for the Jets—providing vital cornerstones on both sides of the ball as they work toward a brighter future.
