The New York Jets have made a significant move by signing All-Pro defensive tackle Quinnen Williams to a four-year, $96 million contract extension. This deal, which includes $66 million in guaranteed money, is the largest guarantee in the history of the franchise. The Jets have surpassed their previous record set by linebacker C.J. Mosley’s $51 million contract as a free agent in 2019. Williams, who still had one year remaining on his rookie contract, is now locked in with the team until the 2027 season.
Quinnen Williams Becomes One of the Highest-Paid Defensive Tackles
With his new contract, Quinnen Williams becomes the second-highest-paid defensive tackle in the NFL based on average annual value. His $24 million per season surpasses Jeffery Simmons of the Tennessee Titans, who earns $23.5 million. However, Williams is still behind Los Angeles Rams star Aaron Donald, who leads the pack with an average annual value of $31.7 million. This deal further solidifies the Jets’ investment in their defense, as they now have two of the highest-paid players at their respective positions, with quarterback Aaron Rodgers also on their roster.
Contract Negotiations and Social Media Frustration
Williams had skipped the Jets’ voluntary workouts as contract negotiations were ongoing. He expressed his frustration on social media multiple times, especially when other top defensive tackles received huge contract extensions. At one point, he even removed the Jets from his Twitter bio, only to restore it shortly before news of his extension broke. Despite the challenges faced during the negotiation process, Jets officials remained optimistic and committed to reaching an agreement.
A Landmark Deal for the Jets
The contract extension for Quinnen Williams holds significant importance for the Jets organization. Historically, the team has not been known for retaining their top draft picks, as none of their first-rounders from 2012 to 2018 received a second contract with the team. This makes Williams’ extension a landmark event, as it marks the first time that general manager Joe Douglas has re-signed a Jets draft pick to a multiyear extension. Douglas took over in 2019, and prior to Williams, only two draft picks from 2012 to 2018 received multiyear extensions.
Williams’ Impressive Performance and Future Outlook
In recent years, Quinnen Williams has showcased his talent and potential on the field. After solid performances in 2020 and 2021, he had a breakout season in 2022, recording a team-high 12 sacks, which ranked third among interior linemen in the NFL. His pressure percentage of 13.4% was the highest among qualified interior linemen, according to NextGen Stats. Williams’ exceptional performance earned him his first Pro Bowl selection and the distinction of being named first team All-Pro.
Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich praised Williams, stating that his performance in 2022 was one of the best he has ever seen. Ulbrich even compared him to former San Francisco 49ers teammate Bryant Young, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in February. With Williams locked in for the foreseeable future, the Jets’ defense has a strong foundation to build upon.
The New York Jets have made a significant move by signing Quinnen Williams to a record-breaking contract extension. This deal not only secures one of the highest-paid defensive tackles in the NFL but also marks a milestone for the Jets organization, as they have historically struggled to retain their top draft picks. With Williams’ exceptional performance and potential, the Jets’ defense has a promising future ahead.
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