C.J. Mosley wanted to remain with the New York Jets
The New York Jets heavily prioritize character in their players. No one epitomizes that priority more than linebacker C.J. Mosley, the defensive captain who garners widespread respect around the NFL.
In the 2024 offseason, Mosley showcased that character by taking a massive pay cut. Due $17 million in base salary, he allowed the Jets to essentially spread that salary out over two years by signing a two-year, $17.25 million reworked deal. This allowed the Jets to clear $14.2 million in 2024 cap space, jumpstarting their entire offseason.
It’s easy to point to Mosley’s overpaid previous seasons as a reason for his capitulation. His five-year, $85 million deal, which paused during the 2020 Covid season when he opted out, was a massive overpay of the market at the time. Additionally, Mosley was unlikely to make more on the open market.
Still, the Jets linebacker could have held out for every last dollar. Instead, he put it concisely: “My mindset was, I want to be here. I want to be a New York Jet.”
"Sacrifices come in many different ways."@TreyDeuce32RTR only wanted to be New York Jet this offseason. pic.twitter.com/EX0hvctQPQ
— New York Jets (@nyjets) May 1, 2024
Mosley added that he wanted to be a part of the defense that he helped build. He and general manager Joe Douglas had “heart-to-heart” conversations about it and made it happen.
Despite clearly losing a step or two, Mosley is still a key cog in the Jets’ defense. He is heavily responsible for the communication on the defense, which was excellent in 2022-23. Even with a decline in coverage, he is still a playmaker in both the run and pass games. The Jets are glad to retain him in the quest for a championship.
