As the New York Jets grabbed headlines Tuesday morning by tying down a historic extension with cornerback Sauce Gardner. The four-year, $120.4 million extension makes Gardner the highest-paid cornerback in National Football League (NFL) history. This new, rich contract locks him in with the Jets through 2030. It ensures that the club will keep the team’s most exciting regular season young star for at least five seasons.
Similarly, Gardner’s contract has the largest annual salary ever – $30.1 million. This is indicative of the Jets’ deep focus and commitment to creating a competitive roster at all costs. Gardner was picked fourth overall in the 2022 NFL Draft by the New York Jets. Since then, he’s had a tremendous influence in the full turn of the team’s defensive philosophy. 2024 proved difficult for Gardner, with critics pointing to a recent decline in his all-around performance. He finished 47th out of 119 qualifying cornerbacks in expected points added (EPA) allowed per target and recorded ten penalties on the year. Gardner recorded just three picks in his first three professional seasons.
None of this seems to have daunted Gardner’s spirits, as he continues acting like his future with the Jets is set. He acknowledged the trust placed in him by the team’s new regime and owner Woody Johnson, stating, “It’s just great that the coaching staff and Mr. Johnson all believed in me because, despite what people say, they watched the tape.” This confidence will be ever important as Gardner moves to a new defensive scheme this season. He hopes the focus on man-to-man coverage will boost his play to new heights.
Gardner stopped to reconsider his own assumptions. He was aware of the added pressure that accompanies big-name contracts and the media scrutiny that follows them. “Nobody’s a bigger critic of me than myself, you know, so it’s not something that throws me off guard because even though some people could say I’m being over-hated and stuff like that, I’m already so hard on myself,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Gardner has come out with a promise to work on his game in every facet. And while he’s very much aware of all the weaknesses that need to be dealt with, he’s committed to meet that challenge. “I know there’s a floor, but there ain’t no roof. Sky’s the limit,” he declared, emphasizing his belief in potential growth and development.
To further demonstrate their mutual support, Gardner chose to delay his own contract announcement. Plus, he didn’t want to steal any of the limelight away from his teammate Garrett Wilson on their special day. This selfless act underscores his humility and team-first mentality, traits that play well inside the Jets’ locker room.
Now, Gardner is getting ready to go for the start of the season. His focus remains on helping the team win more games and playing in meaningful football in December and January. “Playing meaningful football [in December and January]. That’s the next step. That’s the only step,” Wilson stated, echoing a sentiment shared by many within the organization.
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