While the recent contracts handed to the likes of Ndamukong Suh, Corey Liuget, Cameron Jordan and now, Marcell Dareus, seem to have set the market for major defensive lineman deals, it looks like talks between the New York Jets and Muhammad Wilkerson remain at an impasse. As the 2015 season-opener looms, Wilkerson and the Jets have apparently made "no progress" on a new deal, according to a report from Ian Rapoport of NFL.com.
Wilkerson, 25, is entering the fifth-year option of his rookie contract. He will make $7 million on what essentially amounts to a one-year extension of his initial NFL deal. He has made his desire for a new long-term extension very well known, even having gone so far as to stay away from the team at the outset of offseason activities.
He eventually showed and has resumed his starting role along the incredibly stout Jets defensive front. While many saw New York GM Mike Maccagnan's first-round selection of Leonard Williams as a potential shot across the bow of sorts for Wilkerson, Sheldon Richardson's suspension and apparent litany of off-field problems may have Wilkerson rising in the estimation of both Maccagnan and head coach Todd Bowles.
That being said, it's difficult to figure out why a deal for Wilkerson wasn't already considered a top priority for the franchise. Since entering the league via the first-round of the 2011 NFL Draft, Wilkerson has developed into one of the most versatile, high-impact defensive linemen in the NFL. In 2013, the Temple product reached the Pro Bowl and was named second-team All-NFL after he put together a season that included 63 tackles, 10.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and one interception. Last season, a down year for the entire Jets franchise, Wilkerson collected 55 tackles, 5.5 sacks, one forced fumble and five passes defensed.
While the value on a deal for Wilkerson is likely what's holding up negotiations - Dareus' new deal is said to carry $60 million in guarantees, the new record for a non-quarterback in the NFL - it's a contract the Jets should look to finalize sooner rather than later. Wilkerson is good and, more importantly, he still has room to grow.
