Jets defensive tackle Quinnen Williams rewarded the Jets exercising his fifth-year option last year with a breakout 2022 season. As a result, Williams made the next two decisions for New York very easy and very difficult, respectively. The easy decision was to start working toward an extension for the fifth-year lineman. The difficult part has been finding a deal that is agreeable to both sides. Recently, though, feelings around the deal have been positive and optimistic, according to Brian Costello of the NY Post, who ranked Williams as the team’s best player heading into 2023.
Coming off his career year, Williams made it clear that he wanted a new deal, and he wanted his new deal to be a priority, letting it be known that he wanted an extension by April. Yet, into May, the two sides were reportedly still not close on an agreement. One of the reasons for the delay was the preoccupation of the front office as it dealt with a prolonged trade discussion for quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The team also started working toward a restructured contract for its new passer, but a Williams extension seems like a bigger priority for the long term.
As the negotiations with Williams have dragged on over the months, things have stayed surprisingly civil. For a team that has been known to alienate its best players, like former safety Jamal Adams and former cornerback Darrelle Revis, during contract negotiations, the Jets appear to be on good terms with Williams, despite the slow progress.
Being on good terms for now is fine, but with training camp approaching quickly, the pressure is likely building. Williams could potentially stay away from camp or stage a “hold-in.” In order to avoid any uncomfortable situations, the Jets probably want to figure out a new deal before camp. Williams has certainly earned it, and the quality of the defensive line without him drops dramatically.
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