The Cincinnati Bengals took their time but finally secured long-term deals for their top two wide receivers. Late Sunday night, both Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase signed new contracts, with Chase becoming the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Meanwhile, Higgins set a new standard as the highest-paid second-option receiver in the league. These agreements have now reshaped the market for wide receivers, prompting other teams to reevaluate contract expectations for their own stars—including the New York Jets.
The Jets have key young players eligible for extensions this offseason, including cornerback Sauce Gardner and wide receiver Garrett Wilson. Gardner, a two-time First-Team All-Pro in just three seasons, is expected to become the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history. However, Wilson’s contract situation presents a more complex challenge.
With the receiver market surpassing $40 million per year for top talent like Justin Jefferson and Tyreek Hill, Wilson’s value is up for debate. While he may not yet be on the same level statistically as those elite receivers, his performance within the Jets’ struggling offense makes his case interesting. Wilson has achieved a franchise milestone as the first Jets receiver to record over 1,000 yards in each of his first three seasons. In 2024, he also posted his first 100-catch season, along with a career-high seven touchdowns.
A key argument in Wilson’s favor is that his production could have been significantly higher had he played with a more stable quarterback situation. Over the past three seasons, the Jets have cycled through six different quarterbacks, limiting his opportunities. However, with the receiver market continuing to grow, Higgins’ contract now serves as a benchmark for Wilson’s negotiations. Given these developments, Wilson is expected to command a deal worth at least $30 million per year.