The New York Jets are a day away from starting training camp and the second overall pick is still on the west coast. New York and their electric rookie Wilson have yet to agree to terms of a contract. Rookie deals however, are slotted under the collective bargaining agreement preventing players from holding out for more money. When signed, Wilson’s deal will be a four-year contract worth approximately $35.1 million with a $22.9 million signing bonus. So what is the hold up?
While still unknown, the deal is likely stalling due to the contract language. Many rookies the deal and money is pre-determined so it comes down to signing on the dotted lines. However, some agents prefer to look deeper into the details of the offer. One of the more important things disputed in negotiations is the offset language.
An offset clause allows an NFL team to reduce what they owe a player if they cut him and he signs with another team. Put simply, teams want an offset in contracts and players don’t. Offsets are standard in NFL contracts, however, a recent trend for agents is fighting them.
One important point in the Jets Wilson negotiations is that fellow rookie Trevor Lawrence’s contract had no offset in it. The Jaguars typically do not have offsets in their contract, but regardless it gives Wilson’s agent room to negotiate.
As camp approaches and the Jets Wilson situation is still being sorted, there are similarities to Sam Darnold. Darnold missed the first three practices of the 2018 training camp with his deal being negotiated.
Currently the Jets Wilson is in California as seen on his Instagram stories. Will he be making the flight to be there on day 1? It shouldn’t be long but Jets fans should hope to see a deal done, maximizing time in training camp for their rookie QB.
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