In a new social media post, the New York Jets’ star cornerback chimed in on Stephen A. Smith’s contract negotiations
One New York Jets star is respecting the negotiations of a prominent ESPN media personality.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), cornerback Sauce Gardner commented on Stephen A. Smith’s rumored negotiations with ESPN.
“So this is why he has been walking around like the highest-paid CB in the league. I finally get it,” said Gardner.
So this why he been walking around like the highest paid CB in the league. I finally get it😂😂🔥 https://t.co/ACq8GqIJlo pic.twitter.com/dXYNfyI2ph
— SAUCE GARDNER (@iamSauceGardner) June 21, 2024
Gardner is referencing Smith’s contract negotiations with the media giant. While ESPN has reportedly made an offer worth $18 million annually, Smith is apparently looking for $25 million annually. It would be an unprecedented and insane amount for a media personality, even in the modern era.
In relation to Gardner, the situation has an interesting parallel.
The Cincinnati product has been arguably one of, if not the best, cornerbacks in football since entering the league in 2022. He has been lockdown in coverage and a sound tackler, giving the Jets a true shutdown player at a premium position.
As a result, he is likely to be able to reset the market at cornerback. It would be a significant achievement for Gardner, as he would likely have an AAV approaching the $25 million per year mark.
Is it likely that Gardner will be walking around with suits as extravagant as Smith’s? No.
However, Smith’s target of $25 million is well within what the star cornerback could pull in for his extension. It is a goal that Gardner is shooting for, and if he continues to play at a high level, he will achieve it in short order.
