Muhammad Wilkerson rumors: 3 best fits
In February, the New York Jets parted ways with defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson. Here are several potential landing spots for the veteran performer.
The NFL’s free-agent market begins for real on Wednesday afternoon, March 14, at 4:00 p.m. ET. But for players that saw their contracts terminated early, their services are available immediately. Performer such as cornerback Richard Sherman and running back DeMarco Murray don’t have to wait to sell their services.
Such is the case for defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson, who was cut loose last month by the New York Jets after seven seasons with the club. And the seasoned pro has already been making the rounds. There was a visit to Green Bay on Thursday and one scheduled with the New Orleans Saints on Friday.
So where does Wilkerson fit best when it comes to a team looking for veteran defensive help? Here are a few ideas.
Best Fits
1. Kansas City Chiefs
Andy Reid’s team has reached the playoffs four times in five years since he became head coach in 2013. But coordinator Bob Sutton’s defensive unit has been far too reliant on takeaways and needs a little more muscles when it comes to this side of the football. Putting Wilkerson on a three-man line that includes promising second-year end Chris Jones would pay off handsomely.
2. Buffalo Bills
It wasn’t long ago that the team from Orchard Park was loaded on the defensive front. But end Mario Williams is long gone, tackle Marcell Dareus was dealt to Jacksonville last year and veteran Kyle Williams is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent. Putting Wilkerson as a bookend to Jerry Hughes would be a big plus for a team that managed only 27 sacks this past year.
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3. Green Bay Packers
There has already been mention of the seven-year pro’s visit with the Packers. The thing to keep in mind is that new Green Bay defensive coordinator Mike Pettine was with the Jets from 2011-12, Wilkerson’s first two seasons in the NFL. Of course, there’s also a need for more front-seven help when it comes to Mike McCarthy’s club. The Pack could use some more help in terms of the pass rush as well as better play vs. the run.