Wilson’s $130M deal just changed everything for these WRs
New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson just received a historic contract that’s set a new precedent for young receivers in the NFL.
The New York Jets just signed wide receiver Garrett Wilson to a four-year, $130 million extension with $90 million guaranteed. The deal is historic, as it makes the the first time in NFL history that a WR has ever received such a large amount after just three years in the league.
ESPN sources: Jets and wide receiver Garrett Wilson reached agreement on a four-year, $130 million contract extension that includes $90 million guaranteed. It marks the first time in NFL history that a receiver has received an average over $31 million after playing only three… pic.twitter.com/eGynmv7JwN
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 14, 2025
It also happened to reset the market for other young receivers. Now, teams with up-and-coming WR talent are on the clock, and agents are watching closely.
Wilson’s $130M deal redefines WR market
With Garrett’s new contract, he’s making an annual average salary of $32.5 million, putting him at fifth among the highest-paid receivers in the NFL. He joins an exclusive club, trailing only behind Ja’Marr Chase ($40.2M), Justin Jefferson ($35M), CeeDee Lamb ($34M), and A.J. Brown ($32M).
His deal effectively resets the floor for top-tier young receivers, especially those drafted in 2022–2023.
Five WRs on the brink of a payday
- Chris Olave, New Orleans Saints: Three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, similar draft position and skill set to Wilson.
- Drake London, Atlanta Falcons: Impressive physical tools; production has been quarterback-limited but the upside is clear.
- Nico Collins, Houston Texans: Just broke out with a 1,200+ yard season; Houston will need to invest soon.
- Puka Nacua, Los Angeles Rams: Breakout candidate with recent NFL success, riding increased cap and market pressure.
- Christian Watson, Green Bay Packers: Emerging talent, especially if Jordan Love continues his ascent.
Wilson’s extension signals to these players and their agents that a $30M+ annual average salary contract is realistic as long as they consistently perform.
Now, we may see teams offer earlier extensions to avoid inflated bids later. Veterans like Tee Higgins, Michael Pittman Jr., and others could also leverage Wilson’s contract to push for raises.
The Jets did well to finalize this now. With Wilson eligible for an extension and pressure from peers like Chase, waiting could’ve spiked the cost. The deal grants team control through age 29, and safeguards the Jets from runaway market inflation.
Expect the wide receiver marketplace to remain boiling hot. Recent cap increases and high-end deals suggest 2026 will bring even bigger extensions for mid-career stars. If Wilson continues upward, deals for Olave, London, Collins, and others could quickly inflate into the $34–38 M range.
Garrett Wilson’s mega-extension doesn’t just reward him - it stakes a claim in the evolving valuation of all young wide receivers in the league. For players with similar early production, it’s both a motivator and a benchmark. For teams, it’s a warning: invest now or get priced out later.
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