The New York Jets have made a major move to bolster their defense, signing defensive tackle Quinnen Williams to a four-year, $96 million extension. Williams, the third overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, is coming off a strong rookie season and is expected to be a key piece of the Jets’ defense for years to come.
The deal makes Williams the highest-paid defensive tackle in the league, surpassing the five-year, $85 million extension signed by the Los Angeles Rams’ Aaron Donald in 2018. It also makes him the second-highest paid player on the Jets’ roster, behind quarterback Sam Darnold.
Williams had a stellar rookie season, recording seven sacks and 36 tackles in 15 games. He was also named to the Pro Football Writers Association All-Rookie team. His performance earned him high praise from Jets head coach Adam Gase, who said that Williams was “a difference maker” and “a guy that can really help us win games.”
The Jets are hoping that Williams’ presence will help them improve on their 7-9 record from last season. The team has made several moves in free agency to bolster their defense, including signing former Pro Bowl cornerback Pierre Desir and drafting safety Ashtyn Davis in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Williams’ extension is a sign that the Jets are committed to building a winning team. With Williams anchoring the defensive line and Darnold leading the offense, the Jets could be poised for a return to the playoffs in 2021. Only time will tell if this move pays off for the Jets, but it’s clear that they are making a statement with this signing.