Woody Johnson: Jets, Wilkerson Looking for Deal That “Works for Both Sides”

By Glenn Naughton

While Muhammad Wilkerson’s absence from this week’s organized team activities (OTA’s) will naturally generate some buzz among fans and media, Jets owner Woody Johnson says that there is still dialogue between Gang Green and Wilkerson’s reps as they look for a solution that “works for both sides“.

Earlier this offseason, Wilkerson opted to take a pass on the team’s workouts in round one of what will hopefully be a civil re-negotiation process between Gang Green and the four-year pro out of Temple.

Arguably New York’s best draft pick since Darrelle Revis, Wilkerson has played at a high level since being selected with the 30th overall selection in the 2011 draft.

In his brief pro career, he has managed to rack up 24.5 sacks, 21.5 of which have come in the last three seasons despite playing on the end of a base 3-4 scheme with a shaky secondary over each of the past two seasons.  Jets fans are hoping the settled secondary will lead to more production from Wilkerson and company up front.

As one would expect, neither side has discussed any figures publicly, but Wilkerson is said to be seeking a contract similar to the six-year deal Robert Quinn got from the St. Louis Rams that included $41 million in guarantees.

Currently Wilkerson is said to be working out on his own, while his representatives and GM Mike Maccagnan work the phones.

Glenn Naughton

Glenn was Born in the Bronx, New York and has followed the Jets religiously despite being stationed in several different countries and time zones around the world. He now resides in England and has been a JetNation member since 2005. Glenn will bleed green with the rest of us through the highs and lows.

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