Michael Carter II Signs Contract Extension with New York Jets

Michael Carter II, a key figure in the New York Jets’ defense, has agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $30.75 million, as confirmed by sources to ESPN. This agreement solidifies Carter’s status as one of the top players at his position in the league.

The 25-year-old Carter was initially set to earn $3.4 million in the last year of his rookie contract. Under the new deal, he will receive $19 million in guaranteed money, making him the highest-paid slot cornerback based on average annual salary in the NFL.

Carter was drafted in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He becomes the first player selected by general manager Joe Douglas to secure a long-term extension with the team. The news of the extension was first reported by the NFL Network.

While he often plays in the shadow of his fellow cornerback, Sauce Gardner—a two-time first-team All Pro—Carter has consistently proven his worth within the Jets’ secondary. Last season, he participated in 15 games, recording nine passes defended, one forced fumble, and 50 tackles.

Coach Robert Saleh praised Carter’s reliability, emphasizing that while he may not always receive the spotlight, his performance is on par with the best in the league. “He’s so reliable,” Saleh stated. “He doesn’t get as much fanfare, but he’s as reliable as any nickel there is in football.”

Carter did sustain an ankle injury early in training camp but successfully returned to practice last week. He has been cleared to participate in the upcoming season opener against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football.

The Jets made headlines back in 2021 when they selected Carter, largely due to the unique coincidence of his name. They also drafted another Michael Carter, a running back from North Carolina, in the fourth round. Following that selection, they added Carter II, a cornerback/safety from Duke, in the next round.

Carter’s new deal also plays a significant role in the Jets’ future financial planning. He would have entered free agency in 2025 but is now secured through 2026. The team faces upcoming decisions regarding its secondary, particularly with Gardner becoming eligible for an extension in 2025 and starting cornerback D.J. Reed poised to hit free agency.

With both a talented roster and now a stable financial commitment to Carter, the Jets are positioning themselves for future success while maintaining a solid core of defensive players.