NFL teams like the New York Jets have until Thursday, May 1, to either exercise or decline the fully guaranteed 5th-year options of the first-round picks from the 2022 NFL Draft class for the 2026 season. 5th-year option values are determined based on four unique tiers, including basic, playtime, one Pro Bowl, and multiple Pro Bowl selections. Over The Cap goes through each of the four tiers in further detail.
The Jets selected three players in the first round. Therefore, they have a week and a half to make their final decision on all three players.
The New York Jets’ No. 4 pick is categorized in tier 4
Since Sauce Gardner has made it to two Pro Bowls in his first three seasons, his 5th-year option is categorized under tier 4, the multiple Pro Bowls tier. Tier 4 is worth $20.187 million, which is the equivalent of the franchise tag for cornerbacks. Gardner has developed into one of the league’s top cornerbacks, recording three interceptions and 40 pass deflections, along with two Pro Bowls and two First-Team All-Pro selections.
New York Jets make $20 million decision on elite All-Pro
During Monday’s press conference, GM Darren Mougey told the media that they have not officially made a decision, but they plan to exercise Sauce Gardner’s fully guaranteed 5th-year option. As a result, Gardner will make $20.187 million and be under contract through 2026.
“We have time to make that decision, but I do anticipate exercising those fifth-year options,” Mougey said via Antwan Staley of NY Daily News.
He is an extension candidate
During the NFL Scouting Combine, Darren Mougey expressed interest in extending Sauce Gardner this offseason. Since he completed his third regular season, he is eligible to negotiate and sign an extension this offseason.
“The to-do list is to keep good young players on the team and add good players, so yeah,” Mougey said via Rich Cimini of ESPN.