New Report Indicates That Quinnen Williams And The Jets Aren’t ‘Far Apart’ In Negotiations

Quinnen Williams

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In an ongoing saga of contract negotiations, New York Jets talented defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and the team are reportedly “not that far apart” on a contract extension.

Brian Costello and Ryan Dunleavy of The New York Post have reported that the “sense” is that the Jets organization and Williams could finalize a new deal in the coming weeks.

The recent signing of a lucrative extension by Giants defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence has provided a benchmark for Williams’ next contract. Lawrence’s four-year, $90 million deal serves as a reference point that should help shape the negotiations between Williams and the Jets.

With Williams entering the final year of his current contract, he has chosen to be absent from voluntary workouts as discussions between the two sides continue. However, there is an underlying hope that an agreement could be reached.

Head coach Robert Saleh, when asked about his concerns regarding Williams’ contract situation, expressed confidence that a deal would be struck. Saleh stated, “I’m not worried at all. That thing will get done, and he’ll be here.” These remarks reflect the team’s belief that a resolution will be reached, indicating a positive outlook for Williams’ future with the Jets.

Contrasting the recent optimism, earlier this month, ESPN’s Rich Cimini provided a different perspective, writing that Williams and the Jets were “not close to an agreement” on an extension.

Adding a twist to the situation, on May 15th, Quinnen Williams made a statement on social media by removing all references to the Jets from his Twitter page. This move, interpreted as a form of protest or expression of frustration, coincides with Williams boycotting voluntary offseason workouts as he seeks a new contract.

Reports suggest that there is still a significant gap between the positions of the player and the team, indicating a potential strain in the negotiations.

Within the defensive tackle market, Aaron Donald of the Los Angeles Rams stands far above the rest, earning a staggering $31.667 million annually. Below Donald, the highest-paid defensive tackles include Jeffery Simmons of the Tennessee Titans at $23.5 million, and Daron Payne of the Washington Commanders and Dexter Lawrence of the New York Giants, both earning $22.5 million annually.

Since being drafted as the 3rd overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft out of the University of Alabama, Quinnen Williams has become a cornerstone player for the Jets.

His performance in the 2022 season showcased his development, as he achieved a career-high 12 sacks, bringing his total to 27.5 sacks for the Jets.

Williams has established himself as a dominant force on the defensive line and has garnered recognition as one of the league’s premier players in his position.