New York Jets defensive lineman Quinnen Williams has developed into one of the best players in the NFL since being selected in 2019. As he now approaches NFL free agency, the All-Pro defensive tackle is reportedly seeking a market-setting contract.
Williams, the third pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, delivered a breakout year this past season. The former Outland Trophy winner at Alabama earned his first Pro Bowl selection and was named first-team All-Pro.
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Coming off a spring that saw defensive tackles Daron Payne and Javon Hargrave become two of the highest-paid NFL players, the young defensive tackle could be the next in line for a historic contract.
- Quinnen Williams stats (2022): 28 QB hits, 12 tackles for loss, 12 sacks
Rich Cimini of ESPN wrote on Saturday that the Jets will likely have to pay Williams $23 to $25 million per season in a multi-year contract extension.
The $23 million AAV is likely on the lighter end, given the contracts Payne ($22.5M AAV) and Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons ($23.5M AAV) landed this spring. Williams performed better than both last season and based on his importance to the Jets’ defense, an asking price might start at $24 million per season.
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- Quinnen Williams contract: $9.594 million cap hit (2023), 2024 free agent
New York doesn’t have to rush into contract talks. It has Williams under contract for the upcoming season and can use the franchise tag on him for the first time in 2024. However, that would come with the risk of a holdout and could cause issues with the All-Pro defender.
The Jets are projected to have more than $84 million in cap space next year, not accounting for potential salary-cap casualties. Led by defensive-minded coach Robert Saleh and boasting one of the best NFL defenses, the expectation remains that New York will resolve with Williams.
