The New York Jets had a trio of first-round picks in 2022. Then-general manager Joe Douglas hit the first two out of the park. Last week, Garrett Wilson and Sauce Gardner signed the most groundbreaking contract extensions in Jets history. New GM Darren Mougey committed roughly $250.4 million to his face-of-the-franchise players.
That places pressure on Jermaine Johnson II, the Jets’ third first-round pick of 2022. Johnson appeared to have broken out as a pass rusher in his sophomore 2023 season, recording a career-high 7.5 sacks. He unfortunately suffered a brutal season-ending Achilles injury suffered in Week 2 last year.
Johnson will start training camp this week on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list.
Mougey made the decision to exercise Johnson’s fifth-year option despite the uncertainty. Johnson has been rehabbing vigorously this offseason and hopes to bounce back in 2025. The Jets are counting on him opposite Will McDonald IV at defensive end.
Mougey’s gamble means Johnson is signed through 2026. That offers the former Florida State standout two opportunities to play his way into a lucrative contract extension in East Rutherford. Johnson probably won’t reach the heights Wilson and Gardner have achieved, but there’s still time for him to earn a second contract.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets extensions with 2022 first-round picks place pressure on Jermaine Johnson II in 2025
Reporting by Justin Melo, Jets Wire / Jets Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
