New York Jets award historic contract to former fifth-round draft pick

The New York Jets locked up a homegrown talent for the long term on Tuesday evening.

Starting slot cornerback Michael Carter II has agreed to a three-year, $30.75 million extension with a little over $19 million guaranteed, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. The contract can grow to $33 million as the 2021 fifth-round draft pick now becomes the highest-paid nickel corner in the NFL.

As fans eagerly await superstar edge rusher Haason Reddick's arrival, which may or may not happen soon, the Jets made sure one of their defensive leaders would be sticking around well past the 2024 season. After being selected No. 154 overall in 2021, Carter was headed into his contract year.

What's special about this signing for the Jets is that Carter is officially the first 2021 pick drafted by GM Joe Douglas to receive a contract extension. Only four of New York's 10 selections that year remain with the team today.

Now, the former safety turned nickel corner led the NFL in multiple categories in 2023 and at only 25 years old gets rewarded.

This deal comes at the perfect time for the Jets as they prepare for Week 1, erasing any potential questions about Carter's future moving forward. He would have been one of the best players available on the free-agent market at his position, but New York isn't taking any chances. Douglas made sure that they locked up their star nickel corner before potentially having to pay an even higher price next year.

Carter has been a staple in what is considered the best cornerback room in the NFL with superstar Sauce Gardner and star D.J. Reed on the outside. Gardner will be due for a massive contract soon, making the Carter extension a smart and calculated move on Douglas's end.

The 25-year-old Carter has permitted only two touchdown passes over his last 32 appearances. In 2023, he limited opposing receivers to 4.8 yards per target.

After being banged up late for a couple weeks in August, Carter has returned to practice and is expected to be available for the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers .

More New York Jets News:

• Jets choose roster's two oldest players as team captains

• Free-agent DT addition not ready for Jets' MNF opener, creates chance for rookie

• Douglas defends Jets coach's leadership qualities despite poor record

• Saleh takes measures to offset Jets' schedule disadvantage

• Jets' GM boldly disputes Aaron Rodgers criticism and reported 'disarray'