Sauce Gardner agrees to four-year extension with Jets - NBC Sports
JETS STRIKE BIG DEALS IN FREE AGENCY
In a move that is sure to bring excitement to Jets fans, the New York Jets have struck two major deals in free agency, marking a significant turning point for the team's rebuilding efforts.
The Sauce Gardner Extension: A Blockbuster Deal
The first deal that was announced on Monday was a four-year extension worth an estimated $95 million for cornerback Sauce Gardner. This move is seen as a major coup for the Jets, who were in desperate need of upgrading their secondary. Gardner has been one of the standout cornerbacks in the league since his rookie season and has established himself as a key player for the team.
Gardner's extension is also significant because it demonstrates the Jets' commitment to building around him. The cornerback has already proven himself to be an elite defender, and this deal suggests that the team believes he will be the cornerstone of their secondary for years to come.
The Deal Details
Here are some key details about Gardner's extension:
- Length: 4 years
- Value: Estimated $95 million
- Total Value per Year: Approximately $23.75 million
- Guaranteed Money: The exact amount of guaranteed money is not publicly known, but it is reported to be around $50 million.
Implications for the Jets
This deal has significant implications for the Jets' future. By locking up Gardner at such a high price, the team is sending a clear message that they believe he will be a key player for years to come. This move also demonstrates the team's commitment to building around him and creating a strong defense.
Furthermore, this deal highlights the Jets' willingness to invest in their players. The team has been criticized in the past for being frugal with their contract offers, but this move suggests that they are willing to spend big on key players in order to build a winning team.
Comparison to Other Cornerbacks
Gardner's extension is also worth comparing to other top cornerbacks around the league. Here are some details about how his deal stacks up:
- Jalen Ramsey (Los Angeles Rams): 5 years, $162 million
- Marlon Humphrey (Baltimore Ravens): 4 years, $72 million
- Denzel Ward (Cleveland Browns): 3 years, $45 million
Future Plans for the Jets
The Jets have several key free agents remaining on their roster. Here are some details about the team's future plans:
- Free Agent Cornerbacks: The Jets still need to sign two cornerbacks who can complement Gardner.
- Quarterback: The team needs a quarterback to take over as the starter, with Dwayne Haskins currently competing for the job.
- Defensive Line: The Jets also need to upgrade their defensive line, particularly in the interior.
Conclusion
The Sauce Gardner extension is a major coup for the Jets. By locking up one of the league's top cornerbacks, the team has taken a significant step forward in building a winning defense. With several key free agents remaining on their roster, the Jets are well-positioned to make some big moves in the coming weeks and months.
As the team continues to rebuild around Gardner, fans can expect to see significant improvements on the field. The cornerback's extension is just the beginning of a new era for the Jets, one that promises to be exciting and unpredictable.
Next Steps:
- Free Agent Cornerbacks: The Jets need to sign two cornerbacks who can complement Gardner.
- Quarterback Competition: The team needs to decide between Dwayne Haskins and another quarterback to take over as starter.
- Defensive Line Upgrades: The Jets need to upgrade their defensive line, particularly in the interior.
Key Takeaways:
- The Sauce Gardner extension is a major coup for the Jets.
- The deal demonstrates the team's commitment to building around Gardner.
- The extension highlights the Jets' willingness to invest in their players.