The Jets upgraded their wide receiver corps this offseason when New York signed former Chargers pass-catcher Mike Williams to a one-year deal, $10 million deal.
On its surface, that's a bargain for a player who signed a $20 million per year deal just a few seasons ago and has averaged nearly 1,000 yards per season in years he's played at least 13 games. But Williams comes with some major injury concerns after he suffered an ACL tear in Week 3 this past year and has missed at least two games a season from 2019 to 2022.
Therefore, the Jets tacked on an additional $5 million in bonuses for Williams if he hits certain statistical thresholds, according to The 33rd Team. Williams $2 million if he hits 90 receptions, another $2 million if he finishes with at least 1,100 receiving yards and another $1 million for at least 10 touchdowns.
Here's the full breakdown:
Statistic | Bonus |
60 receptions | $500,000 |
70 receptions | $500,000 |
80 receptions | $500,000 |
90 receptions | $500,000 |
750 receiving yards | $500,000 |
850 receiving yards | $500,000 |
950 receiving yards | $500,000 |
1100 receiving yards | $500,000 |
8 touchdowns | $500,000 |
10 touchdowns | $500,000 |
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Williams' best seasons came in 2019 and 2021. He finished with 49 receptions for 1,001 yards and two touchdowns in 2019 and then a career-best 76 receptions for 1,146 yards and nine touchdowns. So despite an injured season in 2023, Williams is capable of playing at an elite level.
While it's unclear how quickly Williams can return to his pre-ACL form, his addition fills out the Jets pass-catching room nicely. It helps, too, that he'll play with Aaron Rodgers in 2024. Williams, who'll be 30 in October, should become the Jets' No. 2 pass-catcher after Garrett Wilson this year in an offense as well. New York also added Malachi Corley in the draft as a possession receiver and still has veteran Allen Lazard and undrafted free agent speedster Xavier Gipson as well as running back Breece Hall.
Williams should play a major role in the Jets' 2024 aspirations. If he stays healthy and performs, he could also be in for a bigger payout at the end of the year before he tries to cash in again during the 2025 offseason.