Close Article Return to stream X
NFL

Muhammad Wilkerson Facing Uncertain Future With New York Jets

+Read full article
Getty Images

Getty Images

Now that the New York Jets have added defensive tackle Leonard Williams the speculation surrounding Muhammad Wilkerson will surely ramp up. There has been speculation circulating that Wilkerson wants a new contract and could hold out to try and get that new deal. However, with Williams, considered by many to be the best prospect in the entire 2015 NFL Draft, in the fold Wilkerson might have to reconsider.

There is no doubt that Wilkerson has proven himself at the NFL level. He has emerged as one of the best 3-4 ends in the game and could slide inside in a 4-3 scheme with little trouble. He will make his money. His fifth year player option was exercised and he will make $7 million this season before hitting free agency. However, he has been absent from offseason workouts so far and reports have come out that at least two teams have approached the Jets about a possible trade but have been rebuffed by GM Mike MacCagnan.

The Jets will have to make a decision on Wilkerson but they now hold the cards. Wilkerson teaming with Sheldon Richardson and Williams could give the Jets one of the best defensive lines in football. Would Wilkerson play out the year under his current deal and get paid next offseason or will he try and force the Jets’ hand?

If the Jets are pushed by Wilkerson they could very easily look to trade him and potentially get some picks for next season. More likely they will hold onto him, perhaps seeing if they can get Wilkerson to sign a short-term extension that pays him closer to what he is worth now while both Richardson and Williams are more affordable and try to make a run on the back of their defense. After all, they do have to consider the age of Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie who are both getting up there.

The Jets have options. They have a desire to keep Wilkerson, at least for now. There is no reason to think that Wilkerson is going anywhere this season, and he could even stick around for the next couple. The Jets have the cap room, have the need and have the defense to potentially make a deep run in the playoffs if they can get some stable play out of their quarterback, whoever that is once the season starts.

Your Favorites