The Jets' first-round pick in 2011, Wilkerson (96) has established himself as one of the league's top defensive linemen. Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
At least two teams have called the New York Jets to inquire about the availability of defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson, according to ESPN.com.
Wilkerson, 25, has one year left on his rookie contract and sat out the first portion of the team’s voluntary offseason program while seeking an extension. He is due to earn $6.969 million in his fifth-year option, which the Jets excercised last spring.
The Jets’ first-round pick in 2011, Wilkerson has established himself as one of the league’s top defensive linemen.
The sides have been talking on and off for about a year regarding a new deal, but have never been close to an agreement, per reports. The Jets changed general managers after the season, replacing John Idzik with Mike Maccagnan.
Maccagnan suggested earlier this month that Wilkerson’s contract situation will not be a priority until after the NFL Draft.
“Muhammad has another year to go on his contract,” Maccagnan said. “That’s something we’re going to discuss here in the offseason at some point in time with him. Obviously, for us, first we’re going to work ourselves through the draft process. After that, that’s something we’re going to address going forward. I think for a lot of these things, it may be a process.
“Obviously, the agent and Muhammad have their perspective. We’re going to have our point, and at the end of the day, hopefully find a middle ground we’re both comfortable with. Muhammad is a very good player. I’d like to keep him a Jet.”
In 2014, Wilkerson totaled 55 tackles and 5.5 sacks in 13 games. In four seasons, he has 236 tackles and 24 sacks.
