Jets Secure Extensions for Top Defensive Stars Gardner, Wilson

The New York Jets are focusing on building a competitive future around two franchise cornerstones, Sauce Gardner and Garrett Wilson, both of whom are expected to receive contract extensions before the 2025 season. Gardner, a two-time First-Team All-Pro and 2022 Defensive Rookie of the Year, has impressed by attending the mandatory minicamp despite ongoing contract discussions, signaling his commitment to changing the organization's culture alongside new head coach Aaron Glenn and GM Darren Mougey. Gardner acknowledged positive talks with the Jets and declined to comment on whether he aims to surpass Houston Texans' Derek Stingley Jr. as the highest-paid cornerback, whose recent extension sets a high market bar. The Jets, coming off a 5-12 season, are undergoing a rebuild with new leadership and key offseason acquisitions, including quarterback Justin Fields and safety Andre Cisco, aiming to strengthen both offense and defense. While Gardner's 2024 performance showed some decline, the defensive unit remains competitive, and the Jets are optimistic about their trajectory under the new regime. Overall, the Jets appear poised to secure their young stars while fostering a culture of commitment and improvement heading into the new season.