The New York Jets erased any and all doubts about Garrett Wilson’s future with the team on Monday when they agreed to a massive extension with the star wide receiver. Wilson will sign a four-year, $130 million deal to remain with the Jets, averaging $32.5 million per year.
He didn’t take the top off the wide receiver market, but he now ranks fifth at his position in annual salary. Additionally, he’s the first receiver ever to earn at least $31 million per year after just three NFL seasons.
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Wilson’s contract could have an impact on Puka Nacua and the Los Angeles Rams when they eventually open negotiations, which can happen as soon as next offseason.
Nacua still has two years left on his rookie deal but many star players end up signing extensions after Year 3 when they’re first eligible. As a former fifth-round pick whose annual salary is only $1 million, Nacua might want to get something done sooner rather than later.
Given Nacua’s record-setting production in his first two seasons, he’s sure to land somewhere near the top of the wide receiver market when he does sign a new contract – assuming it’s with the Rams. Ja’Marr Chase is miles ahead of every other receiver at $40.25 million per year, making $5.25 million more than anyone else, but Justin Jefferson could even be a target for Nacua at $35 million per year.
If Nacua is able to stay healthy and put up another 1,000-yard season, he’ll surely eclipse Wilson’s $32.5 million salary. He could even overtake CeeDee Lamb at $34 million annually. Lamb signed his extension before his fourth NFL season, as did Jefferson. Wilson was a year early, which could be why he fell below each of their salaries.
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If Nacua waits an extra year to sign his next contract, he could stand to make more than he would get if he signs after this coming season. But then he also risks potential injury or a drop in production.
Regardless of when the Rams and Naua start talking, Wilson’s new deal sets the baseline for his next contract. There’s very little chance he’s going to make less than $32.5 million per year now; he’s every bit the player that Wilson is. Not to mention, he’s also younger than DK Metcalf, who’s 28 and just signed for $32.99 million per year in Pittsburgh.
With every wide receiver that signs a new deal between now and next offseason, Nacua’s price will go up. Terry McLaurin could be next, with Drake London in line for a new deal, too. If they eclipse Wilson’s salary, Nacua’s asking price will tick up again.
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This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Garrett Wilson contract: Rams WR Puka Nacua’s price was set by Jets