Sauce Gardner has subtly commented on his contract situation a few times through social media. Now, he has officially stated his case publicly.
Speaking to the New York media after Thursday’s minicamp practice, Gardner expressed a positive outlook on his contract extension talks with the New York Jets brass.
“My team and the Jets have been talking and, you know, I feel pretty good about how the how the talks have been going.” Gardner said.
When asked about whether he is aiming to become the NFL’s highest-paid cornerback, Gardner said, “I don’t want to get into the numbers.”
Gardner proceeded to explain why it was important to him to show up at mandatory minicamp despite his ongoing contract discussions.
“I just wanted to show my teammates [and] my coaches how much I want to win. I want to be part of change in the organization.”
On all fronts, it is a positive update for Jets fans, even if nothing is set in stone just yet.
Many players in Gardner’s position would hold out in this situation – some currently are, like Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin and Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt. Not only has Gardner shown up, but he’s made it clear that being present is a priority for him, and he’s also provided an optimistic perspective on his contract situation.
While Gardner did not state whether he wants to be the highest-paid cornerback in football, it is probable that he is looking for exactly that.
In terms of both total guarantees ($89 million) and average annual value ($30 million), the NFL’s highest-paid cornerback is Derek Stingley Jr., who signed his deal this March. Stingley was chosen one spot ahead of Gardner in the 2022 NFL draft. Gardner has a strong case to surpass Stingley’s deal, as Gardner has made two first-team All-Pro appearances to Stingley’s one.
Wherever the number ends up, the Jets will be happy to have Gardner around for the long haul. Until then, they can rest assured knowing Gardner is committed to the team and uninterested in creating drama for his own personal gain. Alongside Quinnen Williams and others, he is quickly establishing himself as a tailor-made leader for the cultural overhaul being led by head coach Aaron Glenn.