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Sheldon Richardson News Is Great For Muhammad Wilkerson

By Erik Lambert

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Aug 1, 2013; Cortland, NY, USA; New York Jets defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson (91) and defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson (96) stretch during training camp at SUNY Cortland. Mandatory Credit: William Perlman/THE STAR-LEDGER via USA TODAY Sports

While happy isn’t the exact word to describe the mood for defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson at the outbreak of the recent news regarding his teammate Sheldon Richardson.  After all, it does impact how good the New York Jets defense will be in 2015 and beyond if he’s not there.

Yet at the same time there is a small silver lining to the situation whether Wilkerson would care to admit it or not.  The possible ramifications of these charges, which may include Richardson never playing NFL football again, all but ensures that he will get the significant pay raise he’s been hoping for since the end of last season.

Following the draft it was felt any ideas of a holdout were pointless what with the continued presence of Richardson and now the arrival of highly-touted rookie Leonard Williams.  If Wilkerson tried to force the issue, the Jets had that leverage of knowing younger and equally talented bodies were already in place if he decided to walk.

Now?

Richardson is no guarantee moving forward and with Williams being unproven thus far as a pro, New York has suddenly lost a significant portion of its bargaining power.  As of right now the highest paid 3-4 defensive end if of course J.J. Watt who is averaging $16.6 million per year.  The next closest are Cameron Jordan and Calaise Campbell, each sitting at $11 million.  If Wilkerson’s agent is worth anything at all, he’ll be shooting for a number somewhere in between that.

Even more if they choose to gamble and the 26-year old puts up another great season with 8-12 sacks.  As the saying goes, “The ball is in his court.”

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