Should New York Jets fans be worried about the team’s lingering contract situation with Sauce Gardner?
The two-time All-Pro sure doesn’t think so.
Taking to X, Gardner provided fans with some assurance about his future with the Jets.
The Cincinnati product reacted to a post from Steelers cornerback Darius Slay, who wrote, “Man, Houston done did right by their star CB, [why] the hell the Jets taking so long to pay Sauce, he’s a top dawg that earned his money!” In response, Gardner promised, “It’ll happen in due time.”
Slay was referring to the Houston Texans’ contract extension with reigning first-team All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr., who was selected one spot ahead of Gardner in the 2022 draft. In March, Stingley agreed with Houston on a three-year, $90 million contract extension that is almost fully guaranteed ($89 million). Stingley’s contract set records for the cornerback position in terms of total guarantees and average annual value ($30 million).
Gardner has a strong case to exceed Stingley’s contract. While Stingley outperformed Gardner in 2024, Gardner has the stronger body of work over their respective three-year careers. Gardner is a two-time first-team All-Pro to Stingley’s one appearance. Gardner has also been signficantly more durable, missing three career games to Stingley’s 14.
While Stingley has a significant advantage over Gardner in terms of career interceptions (11 to 2, despite playing 11 fewer games), Gardner has the better track record in terms of limiting opponent production. Stingley has allowed 0.86 yards per cover snap in his career, compared to Gardner’s incredible 0.58.
With only three weeks left until Jets veterans report to training camp (July 22), Gardner’s contract talks with New York are ongoing. But the star corner continues to insist that a positive resolution will be reached.