The New York Jets have officially exercised the fifth-year options on their trio of 2022 first-round picks, Sauce Gardner, Garrett Wilson, and Jermaine Johnson. These moves aren’t just business as usual, first-round Jets picks don’t typically stick around long enough to see a second contract. That is where this trio seems to be headed. This is a sign that the Jets are banking on this group to help end the long playoff drought.
Sauce Gardner has quickly become one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. Already named Defensive Rookie of the Year and a two-time first-team All-Pro, Gardner has shown he can lead a defense that can hang with anyone. His presence is huge, especially in today’s pass-heavy league, and he gives the Jets a shutdown corner they can build around.
On offense, Garrett Wilson has been a steady, bright spot. Even with a rotating cast of quarterbacks, Wilson keeps producing. He hauled in 101 receptions for 1,104 yards and 7 touchdowns last season. With Justin Fields now under center, and the two reuniting from their Ohio State days, there’s a real chance the Jets finally have a consistent QB-WR connection to lean on.
Jermaine Johnson has had to fight through some injury setbacks, including a torn Achilles early last season. But when healthy, he’s flashed his pass-rushing ability, putting up 7.5 sacks in 2023. If he gets back to that form, the Jets could have a dangerous edge presence to pair with their secondary.
Still, as promising as this trio is, the truth is simple: none of it matters without a quarterback. Fields brings hope, and the team seems committed to supporting him with a strong run game and a solid defense. But Jets fans have seen this before. Until someone steps up and delivers under center, the rest is just potential.
The Jets have made it clear they believe in Gardner, Wilson, and Johnson as key pieces of their future. Now it’s time to see if this group can help bring playoff football back to New York. The talent is there. The clock is ticking.
What do you think, can the Jets make the playoffs? Stop by our forums and let us hear your thoughts.
