Jets Roster Analysis: Does Muhammad Wilkerson Have Another Big Year in Him?

As we approach the 2016 season, we are going to profile the players on the roster. Today we look at Muhammad Wilkerson.

Name: Muhammad Wilkerson

Number: 96

Year With Jets: 6th

Projected Role: Starting Defensive Lineman/Movable Chess Piece Along the Line

His 2015: The star defensive lineman had the best season of his career yet in 2015. He was an All Pro second teamer for the second time and a Pro Bowler for the first time. He set a new career high with 12 sacks, which was sixth most in the league. The sacks do not the the whole story of how consistently he generates pressure or wins his assignment in the run game. With a lot of talented interior players like Sheldon Richardson, Leonard Williams, and Damon Harrison around, the Jets kicked Wilkerson out to the edge frequently playing end in four man lines. It did little to stifle his production. Wilkerson can line up anywhere along the defensive line and have success. PFF noted that he had at least 10 snaps playing every technique along the line. This type of talent and versatility does not come along every day. Unfortunately, his long-term status with the team remains up in the air as the player and the team have been unable and perhaps unwilling to work out a deal. Wilkerson is looking at playing 2016 under the franchise tag.

2016 will be a success if: Wilkerson replicates what he did in 2015. Even if he replicates 2014, 2013, or 2012, that would be a very good year. His long-term picture is murky, but the Jets can get at least one last good season out of their star.

Odds of making the roster: Most Likely (75-99%) *only this low because of the outside chance he is traded before the season*