Once training camp begins, New York Jets fans will have plenty to cheer for as the team inches closer to the regular season. The organization gave everyone something else to be excited about, however, both now and later.
Extending the contract of wide receiver Garrett Wilson is huge. The 24-year-old is now under team control for the next six seasons, which should be the majority of his prime years. It’s a smart move by the team to be proactive and lock up a premier talent.
It seems that Wilson appreciates the gesture. The morning after his extension got announced, the former Offensive Rookie of the Year took to X to share his thoughts.
Garrett Wilson Praises Jets for ‘Faith’ With New Extension
Wilson is pumped to be with the Jets long-term.
“Yup, Jets green has been running through me since the day they drafted me,” Wilson’s post began. “Despite the ups and downs, the faith is mutual… that means the world to me. Excited to start a new version of the chase next week. #JetUp.”
Media and fans alike reacted to the extension in a positive way. That’s saying a lot considering his per-year salary is set to be a top-five mark in the sport now. Wilson’s combination of total value, annual money and guaranteed funds is among the best in the NFL. Given the length of the deal, though, it could be a steal in the latter half.
That’ll be especially true if Wilson continues developing. Building off his 2024-25 effort is critical. Last season, the former No. 10 overall draft pick set career-high marks for receptions (101), receiving yards (1,104) and touchdowns (7). Not only that, but he was a threat after the catch maintained a manageable drop rate. Wilson’s production bordered on Pro Bowl level despite the Aaron Rodgers-led offense not living up to the hype.
Breaking Down New York’s Wideout Room Entering Training Camp
Heading into camp, Wilson is the unquestioned top dog of the receiver room. Behind him, veterans like Josh Reynolds and Allen Lazard figure to slot in for secondary and tertiary roles. Elsewhere, Tyler Johnson is still looking for his breakout season in the NFL. A pair of youngsters – 2024 NFL Draft pick Malachi Corley and 2025 NFL Draft pick Arian Smith – are battling to make the roster (and make an impact).
Earlier in July, Johnson opened up about the environment of the wideout group.
“It’s been amazing so far, being able to come out here with these guys, day-in and day-out, and work with one another,” Johnson said. “We’re able to go out here and make plays and get 1 percent better every day.”
If the Jets’ offense is to bounce back, it’ll take multiple things to go right. First and foremost, the marriage between new quarterback Justin Fields and offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand must pan out. Secondly, the run game with Breece Hall and Braelon Allen leading the way has to be more consistent. The former dynamic may very well impact the latter.
Other skill position players absolutely have to step up. Fields can’t excel as a passer – even with improved protection – if there isn’t separation in the defensive backfield. That’ll require one of the aforementioned receiver names to be a reliable target.
The least of the Jets’ worries is Wilson being available and effective. That’s exactly why he’s locked in for the long haul.
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