It’s official. The New York Jets announced this morning (via Twitter) that they’ve picked up defensive lineman Leonard Williams‘ fifth-year option. We heard earlier this month that the organization would pick up the option before the May 3rd deadline.
Williams was already under contract for an affordable $2.975MM in 2018, but as our own Zach Links pointed out, it’s uncertain what kind of money he’ll be making in 2019. After all, the 23-year-old has spent time at defensive end and defensive tackle, so he could realistically be listed at either position.
The fifth-year option for former top-10 picks is similar to the transition tag, so Williams’ 2019 salary will be based on the top-10 salaries at his respective position. Michael David Smith of ProFootballTalk.com believes that Williams’ salary could come in around $14.2MM. Regardless, his listed 2019 salary might soon be irrelevant, as the two sides could still agree to a long-term extension.
The former first-rounder out of USC hasn’t missed a game since entering the league in 2015. After compiling seven sacks en route to a Pro Bowl birth in 2016, Williams’ numbers took a bit of a hit in 2017. The lineman ultimately finished the campaign with 47 tackles and two sacks in 16 games, both career-lows. However, Williams still graded out as a top-25 defensive tackle last season, according to Pro Football Focus.
This is the type of guy you invest long term in. Great football player. Great teammate and really good person.
Agreed, especially when compared to former line mate Muhammad Wilkerson. Williams is one of the more talented 3-4 D Linemen in the game. Hopefully the Jets can settle on a position for him and keep him there.
Jets have 2 nice building block leader types on D with Williams and Adams. They need to hit on a QB and some pass rushers and they will b just fine.
Very easy decision here. Williams is a solid blue collar guy with the right attitude and work ethic. Provides the continuity you need when a lot of roster changes are taking place.