Reports: Jets' Wilkerson Considering Holding Out Of Training Camp
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Muhammad Wilkerson might skip the start of the Jets' training camp if the team and the Pro Bowl defensive end don't work out a long-term contract, according to multiple reports.
Because the Jets applied the franchise tag to Wilkerson, the two sides have until July 15 to work out a multiyear deal, but an agreement does not appear to be imminent, reports say. If a deal is not struck by the deadline, Wilkerson's options are to sign a one-year, $15.7 million tender or sit out the season.
Wilkerson is not expected to report to the team's mandatory minicamp, which begins Tuesday. Because Wilkerson is not under contract, he cannot be fined for his absence. He wouldn't have been able to practice anyway because he's rehabbing the surgically repaired leg he broke in last season's finale.
Likely complicating negotiations further is the contract extension defensive tackle Fletcher Cox signed Monday with the Philadelphia Eagles. The six-year deal is worth $103 million, including $63 million guaranteed, ESPN reported. It's the biggest guarantee ever for a non-quarterback.
The Jets reportedly shopped Wilkerson around to other teams during the offseason, but found no takers.
In his first five seasons, Wilkerson, a first-round pick in the 2011 draft, has registered 36.5 sacks. Last season, he had a career-high 12 sacks.