:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50130867/usa-today-9011547.0.jpg)
The Jets have come to an agreement with their defensive star on a long term contract.
According to NFL media insider Ian Rapoport, it will be a 5 year deal that pays Wilkerson $86 million.
Wilkerson gets $86M for 5yrs. $37M fully guaranteed and $54m over next 3yrs. Has $53.5M guar injury
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) July 15, 2016
A prolonged contract negotiation has finally come to an end. Wilkerson has often spoke about his desire to get a contract signed, and spoke earlier this off-season about feeling not wanted by the Jets.
The star defensive lineman has enjoyed a productive 5 year career with the Jets so far after being drafted in the first round of the 2011 NFL draft. Having his most productive season in 2015 where he racked up 64 tackles, 12 sacks, 7 pass defenses and two forced fumbles.
Official! #JetUp pic.twitter.com/xEEX1R3N1p
— New York Jets (@nyjets) July 15, 2016
✈️⬆️ pic.twitter.com/ApSoHrrVtx
— New York Jets (@nyjets) July 15, 2016
This is a little surprising considering there were rumours that the Jets and Wilkerson's representation hadn't spoken in a while, although it was reported that the Jets would make one final effort to sign Mo to a contract he has been reportedly promised. Had he have been forced to play the 2016 season under the franchise tag, we would have had one unhappy Mo on our hands. The Jets defensive line will now be more settled going into the 2016 season with Wilkerson, Williams and Richardson looking to cause havoc among opposing offensive lines.