NY Jets will reportedly look to re-sign Marcus Maye to a long-term deal

The NY Jets haven’t done the best job of developing and retaining homegrown players over the last few years. But Marcus Maye could be the player to break that trend.

Maye is the most notable Jets player set to hit the open market this offseason and many expect the organization to do everything they can to bring him back. And one recent report indicates the same thing.

Bleacher Report’s Connor Rogers took to Twitter on Sunday and insisted that the Jets “will try to get a long-term deal done with Marcus Maye.” He did also indicate that the franchise tag could be an option if the two sides can’t come to a long-term agreement.

The franchise tag number for safeties this offseason is expected to be around $10.496 million which is a very affordable figure. It’s the fourth-lowest total behind tight ends, running backs, and specialists (kickers/punters).

The NY Jets must look to re-sign Marcus Maye

A second-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, Maye battled injuries early in his career, but was a consistent performer when on the field. While never a star, his reliable play gathered him a reputation as an above-average starter.

However, in 2020, he took his game to a new level.

Maye finished as Pro Football Focus‘ fifth-ranked safety earning a stellar 82.8 overall grade. His 85.8 coverage grade ranked fourth at his position and he was top-20 in run defense as well.

The 27-year-old was legitimately one of the best safeties in the NFL this past year and even received four All-Pro votes — the only Jets player besides Quinnen Williams to receive a vote.

Heading into the offseason, Maye will likely be looking at his only shot at securing a significant payday given that he turns 28-years-old in March. Fortunately for Gang Green, it’s unlikely his market skyrockets.

The Jets appear set on avoiding the same mistake they made with Robby Anderson last offseason and will be looking to re-sign Maye to a long-term deal. If not, as Rogers noted, the franchise tag is a very feasible option.

The Jets have only re-signed three drafted players to second contracts since the 2013 NFL Draft class. Brian Winters, Quincy Enunwa, and Jordan Jenkins are all players drafted by the Jets in 2013 or later who have played on the team past their rookie deals.

That’s it though. No one else.

Maye is looking to break that streak. And more importantly, the Jets are looking to break that streak.

Expect the Jets to do everything they can to re-sign Marcus Maye in the coming weeks.