ESPN -- If you're frustrated by the team's methodical approach in free agency, hang tight. The Jets have the resources to be major players next offseason. They will have plenty of cap space, extra draft picks and only one key player heading to free agency -- Muhammad Wilkerson, assuming he doesn't get a long-term contract. (Sheldon Richardson's contract will expire, but his fifth-year option will be exercised.)
General manager Mike Maccagnan set it up this way, managing contracts and the cap to create the flexibility. Every decision now is made with an eye on the future.Only two non-rookie contracts next year contain significant guaranteed money -- Darrelle Revis ($6 million) and Matt Forte ($4 million). Revis' contract includes an offset, meaning they won't get stuck with the entire $6 million cap hit if they release him (assuming he plays elsewhere).
Teams are expecting the cap to spike in 2017, providing additional room. In theory, the Jets could have enough space to carry Wilkerson again on the franchise tag ($18.8 million), although that wouldn't make much cap sense.
The Jets also could receive at least three compensatory draft picks, the result of losing Damon Harrison, Chris Ivory and Demario Davis. Compensatory picks will increase in value next year because, for the first time, they can be traded.
Yes, the Jets are being squeezed now, but the future looks bright.
General manager Mike Maccagnan set it up this way, managing contracts and the cap to create the flexibility. Every decision now is made with an eye on the future.Only two non-rookie contracts next year contain significant guaranteed money -- Darrelle Revis ($6 million) and Matt Forte ($4 million). Revis' contract includes an offset, meaning they won't get stuck with the entire $6 million cap hit if they release him (assuming he plays elsewhere).
Teams are expecting the cap to spike in 2017, providing additional room. In theory, the Jets could have enough space to carry Wilkerson again on the franchise tag ($18.8 million), although that wouldn't make much cap sense.
The Jets also could receive at least three compensatory draft picks, the result of losing Damon Harrison, Chris Ivory and Demario Davis. Compensatory picks will increase in value next year because, for the first time, they can be traded.
Yes, the Jets are being squeezed now, but the future looks bright.