The defensive tackle market experienced a reset over the weekend.
The Tennessee Titans signed Jeffery Simmons to a three-year extension worth $105.8 million, making him the highest-paid defensive tackle in NFL history at $35 million per season.
It’s a reminder why the rebuilding Jets traded Quinnen Williams at the trade deadline last year.
The Jets traded Williams to the Dallas Cowboys for a package that included a 2027 first-round draft pick.
General manager Darren Mougey could eventually use that selection to target his future starting quarterback. The Jets can also sit out the defensive tackle market for a while.
The Jets signed Williams to an extension in 2023. The Cowboys inherited a contract that’s set to expire after 2027. After the upcoming 2026 campaign, however, Williams will possess no guaranteed money remaining on his deal, meaning he’ll likely expect to negotiate an extension next offseason in the same neighborhood as Simmons’ $35 million per year contract.
Meanwhile the Jets have talents like T’Vondre Sweat, Harrison Phillips, and Jowon Briggs at defensive tackle on extremely team-friendly contracts.
New York also drafted Darrell Jackson Jr. during the 2026 NFL draft. Williams is an elite talent, but there are benefits to the Jets avoiding having to pay a defensive tackle $30-plus million per season anytime soon.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jeffery Simmons extension explains why Jets traded Quinnen Williams
Reporting by Justin Melo, Jets Wire / Jets Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Justin Melo, Jets Wire | USA TODAY Network
