Aaron Rodgers pursuit might have pulled money away from talented young player

The New York Jets have quarterback Aaron Rodgers on the books, but is the team now in danger of losing this young star player?

Credit to the New York Jets. They desperately needed a proven winner at the quarterback position, targeted Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and successfully acquired him in a trade. That’s great news, especially since the Jets watched as the quarterback depth chart last season pushed them out of a playoff spot.

But with Rodgers’ addition to the team, the Jets appear to be having trouble retaining one of their young star players.

According to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, the Jets are not close to an agreement with defensive tackle Quinnen Williams on a contract extension. This comes even with the “second-contract market for top defensive tackles is clearly formed.”

Jets, Quinnen Williams reportedly not close in contract negotiations

This is certainly concerning news for the Jets, as they have watched other teams secure top defensive tackles before they were set to hit free agency. That all began with the Washington Commanders signing Daron Payne to a four-year, $90 million contract. Jeffery Simmons of the Tennessee Titans was next up, signing a four-year, $94 million extension. Just this past week, Dexter Lawrence, who shares the same home stadium as Williams, signed a four-year, $90 million deal with the Giants.

Williams just had an incredible fourth season with the Jets, as he was earned First team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors for the first time in his career. In 16 games played, Williams recorded 55 combined tackles (35 solo, 20 assisted), 28 quarterback hits, 12 tackles for loss, 12 sacks, four defended passes, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.

Now, Williams is the next young defensive tackle due for a new deal. For the Jets, they do have time, as he’s under contract for one more season, and can try to work out a deal either before or afterwards. If worst comes to worse, there’s always the franchise tag route in 2024.