The New York Jets made their big move this week. On Tuesday, the Jets inked an extension with Nickelback Michael Carter II. Carter, fresh off being named a pivotal part of the dominating Jets defense, has agreed to a three-year, $30.75 million contract extension. This new deal showcases the huge commitment the team has to retaining defensive talent.
He’ll get $19 million guaranteed under the new deal, making him the highest-paid slot cornerback in the NFL based on average annual salary. Carter was due to make $3.4 million during the final year of his rookie contract. The extension is indicative of just how high the Jets think of his performance and upside.
Michael Carter II Performance
Michael Carter II was drafted in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He is the first draft pick to have gotten a long-term extension from general manager Joe Douglas. Many times, Carter played in the shadow of Sauce Gardner, who has been a two-time first-team All-Pro at cornerback. Nevertheless, he keeps proving his worth on the pitch.
In 15 appearances last season, he recorded nine passes defended, one forced fumble, and 50 tackles. To the extent one can tell, he’s been a steady, reliable presence, if not spectacular. His position coach, Robert Saleh, likewise lauded his reliability stating, “He’s as reliable as any nickel there is in football.”
It was an early setback when Carter hurt his ankle during training camp. The ankle is healing well now, and he has medically been cleared for the season-opening opener against the San Francisco 49ers on “Monday Night Football.” His possible addition to the lineup will go down pretty well the way the Jets are making their preparations for the regular season.
New York Jets’ strange decision
The Jets received attention for this strange decision as they picked not one but two players with the same name in 2021: Michael Carter. They picked Michael Carter, a running back out of North Carolina, during the fourth round. In the next round, they selected Michael Carter II, a Duke safety/corner. Their draft plan was a little bit unusual due to that scenario.
Carter’s extension is part of the Jets’ bigger financial planning. He would have been one of their best free agents in 2025. Going forward, there is still much to be decided by the Jets about the secondary. Cornerback Sauce Gardner will be extended in 2025 and starter D.J. Reed will be a free agent.
Such an extension of Michael Carter II is just what the doctor ordered for the Jets. It cements a good player in their defense and shows the seriousness of the team in pursuing a strong, effective secondary. Going forward, the Jets with the new deal of Carter, are well-settled into an immediate future filled with long-term success. The deal not only rewards Carter’s hard work but also reinforces the Jets’ line-up they have been heading into this new season with.
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