The New York Jets placed the franchise tag Muhammad Wilkerson earlier this offseason, but the star defensive lineman is hoping he doesn’t have to play the 2016 season under a one-year deal. To this point, not progress has been made on a long-term extension for Wilkerson, and he is clearly starting to lose his patience.
“It’s shocking. It’s frustrating,” Wilkerson told Brian Costello of New York Post on Wednesday. “Because I feel like I’ve earned it and I deserve it. It would be different if I was just a mediocre player. I feel like each and every week I’m dominating and it’s showing. The stats speak for themselves. Basically, what more do I need to do? You know what I mean?”
Wilkerson, a first-round pick out of Temple in 2011, recorded 12 sacks and two forced fumbles last season. He’s emerged as one of the best defensive ends in football, but long-term extensions for players of that caliber can be very complicated. Despite that, Wilkerson isn’t feeling wanted.
“Do I feel that they want me back? As of right now, no. I don’t feel like they want me,” he said. “I’m a talented guy. Everybody knows that. I feel like they’re going to get the best they can out of me and just let me go. That’s how I feel. Do I like that feeling? No. I’m a New Jersey guy, born and raised and would love to raise my family here.”
Wilkerson just watched Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Fletcher Cox sign a six-year, $102 million extension, so you could argue that the market has been set. Mo would certainly argue that, as he feels he is a better player than Cox.
“I think he’s a great player. Do I feel like I’m better than him? Yes,” Wilkerson added. “Not to be cocky, it’s just a confidence thing. Everybody in the league that plays feels like they’re the best player at their position. If you ask any NFL player, they’re going to say they’re the best at their position.
“I feel like I’m better than him and whatever [his deal is] I deserve that or better.”
All players want long-term security, which is why hardly anyone is happy with the franchise tag. Just look at the situation that is going on with the defending champions. Wilkerson can keep sitting out, but the reality is he might have to wait until after the season to get the extension he is seeking.
H/T Pro Football Talk
Photo: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports
