Gang Green Gives Big Bucks to All-Pro Defensive Tackle
It was only a matter of time before Quinnen Williams got paid.
The New York Jets agreed to a new four-year contract with their All-Pro defensive tackle and they did it six days prior to the start of training camp.
Williams, who is in the option year of his rookie deal, will reportedly earn $66 million in guaranteed compensation from Gang Green through the extension.
"I'm happy for him and his family, he's deserving of everything," said Jets' third-year head coach Robert Saleh in a press release issued by the club.
NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported the eye-popping agreement to be worth $96 million total with more than two-thirds of the money guaranteed. Williams's agent is Houston-based Nicole Lynn.
The news ends any speculation of whether the 25-year-old Williams would report to the team facility on July 19. The fifth-year pro was not present for voluntary offseason workouts and practices. Instead, he remained home with his family as they welcomed a newborn in May.
"We are happy to have the business of football behind us and to turn our focus to getting ready for the 2023 season," said Jets' general manager Joe Douglas in the team's announcement.
Saleh had repeatedly stated his belief that negotiations would be complete in time for training camp.
"I speak for everyone, I probably speak for Quinnen in that we all want it to get done sooner rather than later," said Saleh during OTAs. "I’ll let the business guys handle all that stuff, but it’s going to get done. He’ll be here for camp."
Williams is a centerpiece in Saleh's defense, which allowed the fourth-fewest points and yards in the NFL last year. The interior lineman racked up a career-high 12.0 sacks while also stopping the run at a high rate in 2022.
He has totaled 25.0 sacks and 10 pass deflections over his last 44 games.
Sports Illustrated slotted Williams as the No. 7 overall defensive lineman in the NFL on a list that also featured edge rushers.
The near-record contract is in sync with the market for star defensive tackles. The New York Giants gave Dexter Lawrence a four-year, $90 million contract in early May after Tennessee Titans' All-Pro Jeffery Simmons secured a four-year $94 million extension in April.
Williams's deal ($24m AAV) edges out Simmons ($23.5m AAV) for the second-highest average annual value amongst defensive tackles in NFL history. Only Los Angeles Rams' star Aaron Donald makes more money per season than the Jets' franchise player will earn under the contract extension.
"Quinnen is the epitome of a Jet. His commitment to this organization and our fans is consistently on display in his play, in his preparation, and in his work serving those in this area," said team owner Woody Johnson.
Williams's older brother Quincy signed a three-year deal to remain a member of Gang Green's linebacking corps in March.
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