In two offseasons as the New York Jets’ general manager, Darren Mougey has displayed a sharp eye for roster building and finding excellent value on several occasions.
Once again, Thursday’s news of Derwin James’ extension showcased another example of Mougey’s savvy roster management, highlighting the value of Gang Green locking up Minkah Fitzpatrick shortly after acquiring him.
James signed a three-year, $75.6 million extension with the Chargers, which makes him the highest-paid safety in football.
After the Jets acquired Minkah Fitzpatrick in exchange for a Day 3 pick in March, Mougey signed the 29-year-old to a three-year, $40 million extension.
James’ extension makes Mougey look like a genius for extending Fitzpatrick at the price he did. It’s another example of Darren Mougey getting ahead of the market rather than paying the price once it’s already been set, much like he did with running back Breece Hall’s extension.
While both players are 29 years old, Fitzpatrick overall merely graded out as the stronger player compared to James last season. His 81.9 overall grade from Pro Football Focus ranked seventh among 98 qualified safeties. James Jr.’s 81.2 mark ranked ninth.
They are very similar players in terms of production; there is no doubt about that. Both have made five Pro Bowls after being first-round picks in 2018 while establishing themselves as two of the league’s top safeties.
The fact that the Jets landed Fitzpatrick at almost half the price the Chargers paid for James Jr. is a perfect example of another Mougey masterclass.
