Muhammad Wilkerson is officially back with the New York Jets. Just before time ran out for teams to sign players to long-term extensions, the New York Jets were able to beat the clock and sign defensive stud, Muhammad Wilkerson to a long-term deal.
According to multiple reports, the deal is for five-years and will pay Wilkerson close to $85 million and $17 million per season over the next five years.
The Jets tweeted out this photo to share the good news:
A shocking, but pleasant surprise
This deal getting done was an absolute stunner. Just weeks ago it seemed as if no progress was being made between Wilkerson and the Jets. All signs pointed to Wilkerson playing the 2016 season under the franchise tag. When asked a few weeks ago about his thoughts on being franchised Wilkerson had this to say:
“Do I feel that they want me back? As of right now, no. I don’t feel like they want me,” the 26-year-old said. “I’m a talented guy. Everybody knows that. I feel like they’re going to get the best they can out of me and just let me go. That’s how I feel. Do I like that feeling? No. I’m a New Jersey guy, born and raised and would love to raise my family here.”
Wilkerson, 26, enjoyed his best season in the NFL in 2015, racking up a career-high 12 sacks and forcing three fumbles, to go along with 64 tackles. Wilkerson is, at times, arguably one of the best defensive player in the NFL last season. He was, without a doubt, the best Jets defender last season. Wilkerson also earned his first Pro Bowl berth in his career year.
With a new mega-contract under his belt, Wilkerson will likely again be among the NFL's elite defensive lineman for this season and many for years to come.
