The NY Jets have reportedly re-signed wide receiver Braxton Berrios, a fan favorite and 2021 All-Pro returner to a deal well below what most expected he would receive.
Reports surfaced in the days and weeks leading up to free agency that Berrios could be set to receive a deal up worth up to $8-9 million per year. Teams such as the Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots were reportedly showing interest.
However, when the dust settled, the Jets agreed to terms with Berrios on a very team-friendly two-year, $12 million deal with $7 million in guarantees. That's just $6 million per season — well below what his perceived market value was.
For a homegrown player like Berrios who has genuinely developed into one of the more valuable players on the roster, it's encouraging to see the Jets reward him with an extension.
The Braxton Berrios contract is a great deal for the NY Jets
The Jets claimed Berrios off waivers from the New England Patriots prior to the start of the 2019 season. Originally just a special teamer, Berrios gradually saw his role increase over his three years in New York.
By the time the 2021 season rolled around, Berrios had emerged as a regular offensive contributor and legitimately one of the best returners in the NFL.
Berrios finished this past season with 46 catches for 431 yards and two touchdowns while also adding two scores on the ground. On top of that, he more than proved his value on special teams.
The 26-year-old was named first-team All-Pro as a kick returner after leading the league with an average of over 30 yards per kick return. He also finished second behind just Devin Duvernay of the Baltimore Ravens with 13.4 yards per punt return.
Berrios may not have made the Pro Bowl, but he proved his worth to the Jets. The two sides have been in discussion about an extension for over a month now and they were finally able to strike a deal once the legal tampering period officially opened.
This is a win-win deal for both Berrios and the Jets. Berrios gets a large chunk of guaranteed money and the chance to cash-in in free agency in two years while the Jets get a super valuable player back at a very reasonable price.
Jets fans rejoice. Braxton Berrios is staying in Florham Park.