Report: Jets still shopping Wilkerson
The New York Jets are still shopping defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson despite general manager Mike Maccagnan's insistence otherwise earlier this month, a source told Brian Costello of The New York Post.
After using their franchise tag on him, the Jets are looking for a trading partner to give up at least a first-round pick in this year's draft for the Pro Bowler. That team would also have to be willing to sign Wilkerson to a long-term deal that could include $50 million in guarantees.
If the Jets are unable to sign or trade Wilkerson, he will play out the season on a one-year contract worth $15.7 million. They could franchise him again in 2017 for another $18.8 million.
The team is said to be offering Wilkerson a below-market deal and have not been communicating with his representatives, meaning a long-term contract in New York seems unlikely at this point.
The 26-year-old is entering his prime coming off his best season, racking up 12 sacks and 64 tackles and two forced fumbles in 2015.