Jets Secure Record Deal for Cornerback Sauce Gardner

The New York Jets have made headlines once again by securing a record-setting contract extension for star cornerback Sauce Gardner. The team announced on Tuesday that Gardner has signed a four-year extension worth $120.4 million, which includes $85.653 million guaranteed. This deal makes him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history, with an average annual salary of $30.1 million.

Just a day prior, the Jets extended wide receiver Garrett Wilson, further solidifying the team’s commitment to retaining key talent. Gardner’s new contract surpasses that of Derek Stingley Jr. of the Houston Texans, who received a three-year extension worth $90 million in March. Notably, Stingley was drafted third overall in 2022, one spot ahead of Gardner.

In a statement posted to X, Gardner expressed his gratitude and optimism, stating, “this only the beginning.” He thanked his brother, Allante Gardner, and agent AJ Vaynerchuk, along with the Jets organization and their fans for their support.

A New Era for the Jets

This contract comes as Gardner, 24, had two years remaining on his rookie deal, including a fifth-year option for 2026, valued at $20.2 million guaranteed. The Jets’ proactive approach in securing both Gardner and Wilson through 2030 marks a significant shift in strategy for the franchise, which has historically struggled to retain its top stars.

Gardner and Wilson have made NFL history by becoming the first two former first-round draft picks to receive contract extensions in their first year of eligibility under the current financial system, which has been in place since 2011. Gardner’s achievement is particularly noteworthy as he becomes the first Jets player since linebacker C.J. Mosley to hold the title of highest-paid player at his position. Mosley signed a five-year, $85 million deal in 2019, which briefly set the standard for off-ball linebackers.

During a recent minicamp, Gardner made clear his desire to remain with the Jets long-term, stating, “I want to change the organization. I want to be a part of changing the organization.” This sentiment aligns with the goals of the Jets’ new regime, led by head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey, who have emphasized the importance of keeping their top young players.

Gardner’s Impressive Track Record

Gardner’s impact on the field has been immediate and significant. He was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2022 and is the only cornerback since the NFL-AFL merger in 1970 to be named first-team All-Pro in each of his first two seasons. Only two other defensive players have achieved this distinction: the legendary Lawrence Taylor of the New York Giants and Micah Parsons of the Dallas Cowboys.

In his rookie season, Gardner ranked second among cornerbacks in Expected Points Added (EPA) per target as the nearest defender, according to Next Gen Stats. Although his performance saw a decline in 2023, he remains a cornerstone of the Jets’ defense.

The Jets’ commitment to Gardner reflects a broader shift in the organization’s philosophy, focusing on building a competitive roster that can sustain success in the long term. As the franchise looks to the future, securing players of Gardner’s caliber will be crucial in their pursuit of NFL excellence.