Will the Jets sign Quinnen Williams to a contract extension? Fantasy Football Outlook

May 19, 2023

Will the New York Jets sign Quinnen Williams to a contract extension, especially after the escalating price tags in the defensive tackle market?

Last month, New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas shared that they are optimistic and hopeful of finalizing a contract extension with defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. But the former Alabama standout seems to share a different narrative with this tweet.

While Williams didn’t say a word in the brief video, his expression negates what Douglas has been declaring. Regardless of what happens, he will remain in New York after the Jets exercised their fifth-year option. But time is running out with each passing day. The Jets could lose one of their up-and-coming defensive players without a deal.

Unfortunately for the Jets, Williams has the leverage in this situation. Other teams will be thrilled to sign him, especially after a breakout 2022 season where he had a career-high 12 sacks. Likewise, his agent is Nicole Lynn, who negotiated Jalen Hurts’ five-year, $255 million contract extension with the Philadelphia Eagles. Finally, the market for defensive tackles has been trending up. Therefore, the Jets must open their wallet to include Williams in their long-term plans.

The skyrocketing defensive tackle market is good business for Quinnen Williams

Losing Williams will significantly drop the Jets’ capability of disrupting the opposing offensive line. Their ability to cause turnovers will dwindle, considerably impacting the fantasy points they generate. Last season, the Jets finished 12^th in fantasy points with 112.

Aside from getting better numbers last year, Williams can refer to the recent contract extensions signed by his fellow defensive tackles. Jeffery Simmons agreed to a four-year, $94 million extension with the Tennessee Titans, while Daron Payne signed a four-year, $90 million deal with the Washington Commanders.

Meanwhile, the New York Giants rewarded Dexter Lawrence with a four-year, $87.5 million extension. Javon Hargrave inked a four-year, $84 million contract to join the San Francisco 49ers. During Williams ' contract negotiations, Lynn can highlight these signings to arrive at a fair deal.

Finally, threatening to skip offseason workouts is Williams’ final ace up his sleeve. He will keep his distance until the Jets gives him the contract he seeks. Williams is striking while the iron is hot, and the Jets have no option but to play according to his terms.

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