The New York Jets have struck a deal with cornerback Michael Carter, extending his contract for three years at $30.75 million, as reported by Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. With incentives, the deal could reach $33 million, boasting $19 million in guarantees. This agreement positions Carter as the highest-paid slot cornerback in the league.
The Jets and Michael Carter II have agreed to terms on a 3 year $30.75m extension, up to $33m, with slightly over $19m in total guarantees. Carter is now the highest paid slot corner in the NFL.
Deal done by Kelton Crenshaw of Klutch Sports Group.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 3, 2024
For context, the top-earning cornerback overall is Jaire Alexander of the Green Bay Packers, who earns an average of $21 million per year. Kenny Moore II of the Indianapolis Colts previously held the title for the highest slot cornerback with his $30 million deal in March, but Carter has now taken the lead.
Carter, who was selected in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, is heading into his fourth season with the Jets. This new contract keeps him in New York as he wraps up the last year of his rookie deal. Since joining the team, he has played in 47 games, starting 20 of them.
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The 25-year-old has shown significant growth over the past two seasons. In 2022, Carter notched 63 tackles, nine pass deflections, and two interceptions, allowing a 75.3 passer rating. In 2023, he improved even further, permitting just 51.6 percent completion against him and achieving a passer rating of 70.6 while totaling 50 tackles and nine pass deflections.
Carter’s performance has helped solidify a Jets defense that has ranked among the best in the NFL. In 2023, the Jets placed third in total yards allowed, second against the pass, and 12th in points allowed, surrendering an average of only 168.3 passing yards per game, trailing only the Cleveland Browns.
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In today’s passing-centric league, retaining top talent in pass defense is essential, and Carter’s re-signing is a critical move for the Jets. The team aims to bolster their playoff ambitions with a strong defense and the anticipated return of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is recovering from an Achilles injury. The Jets are currently facing the NFL’s longest playoff drought, having not reached the postseason since 2010.
The Jets are also negotiating with edge rusher Haason Reddick, who remains the last holdout in the league after the San Francisco 49ers’ Trent Williams recently signed a new deal.