Garrett Wilson, the talented wide receiver for the New York Jets, just secured a big future with a four-year contract extension worth $130 million, making him one of the top-paid receivers in the NFL. This deal guarantees him $90 million, ranking him fourth in guaranteed money among wideouts. It’s a landmark moment—he’s the first receiver in NFL history to pull in an average of over $31 million after just three seasons. His new average of $32.5 million is fifth highest among all NFL receivers.
Wilson, who was drafted 10th overall in 2022, still had two years left on his rookie contract, including a fifth-year option for 2026 at $16.8 million. Locking him down is crucial for the Jets, as it secures a key player through the 2030 season. The team is also working on extending cornerback Sauce Gardner, their fourth overall pick in 2022.
This move marks a significant shift for the Jets. In past years, the franchise often struggled to keep its top young talent. Recently, they have made it a priority to retain their stars. Coach Aaron Glenn and General Manager Darren Mougey are committed to building a strong, young core—a goal the previous management couldn’t achieve.
Last season, Wilson had career-highs, catching 101 passes for over 1,100 yards and scoring seven touchdowns. However, rumors swirled about his dissatisfaction, partly stemming from his rocky relationship with former quarterback Aaron Rodgers. With Rodgers’ departure this past March, Wilson now has a familiar face at quarterback: Justin Fields, his old teammate from Ohio State. Both have expressed excitement about this new chapter.
At just 25, Wilson is on track to leave a remarkable mark on the Jets’ history. He’s the first player since George Sauer in the 1960s to have three consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons. Uniquely, he’s one of only five players in NFL history to record over 1,000 receiving yards and 80 receptions in each of his first three seasons, joining stars like Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson.
The NFL has seen a trend in record-setting contracts lately. In fact, a recent survey by the NFL Players Association found that the average salary for wide receivers has skyrocketed—an indication of how valuable these playmakers are in today’s game. The shift toward aggressive spending for top talent shows how teams recognize the game-changing potential a dynamic receiver can bring.
As Wilson moves forward, he’ll continue to shape the Jets’ future—and perhaps even redefine what success looks like for the franchise. With new leadership and a bright opportunity ahead, he remains hopeful for a long and successful career in New York.