Jamien Sherwood is set to remain a key figure in the New York Jets’ defense, securing a future with the team that extends through a new three-year contract valued at $45 million. This updated agreement, which encompasses $30 million in guaranteed earnings, was confirmed by an insider familiar with the negotiation specifics. However, due to confidentiality clauses, the person spoke anonymously since the Jets have yet to formally announce Sherwood’s deal.
Sherwood, only 25 years old, is basking in the glow of a stellar season where he was lauded as the team’s MVP, an accolade voted on by his peers following his impressive defensive performance. Sherwood distinguished himself with a total of 154 tackles—95 of which were solo efforts. His return is a strategic priority for the Jets’ new general manager, Darren Mougey, and head coach, Aaron Glenn. By retaining Sherwood, the team maintains critical continuity within its defense ahead of the NFL’s free agency commencing on Wednesday.
The Jets are in the midst of a significant roster overhaul, as evidenced by their decision to move on from quarterback Aaron Rodgers and last week’s release of wide receiver Davante Adams. Adams has since reached an agreement with the Los Angeles Rams on a two-year, $46 million contract. Meanwhile, Rodgers, at 41, has yet to confirm his intentions regarding a potential 21st season in the NFL.
Preserving Sherwood, a burgeoning homegrown asset, arises from his ascent to defensive playcaller last season after linebacker C.J. Mosley faced injuries sidelining him with a toe ailment and a neck issue involving herniated disks. Originally drafted as a safety from Auburn in 2021, Sherwood transitioned to linebacker following his selection in the fifth round by the Jets. Despite a setback from an Achilles injury during his rookie year, he adapted quickly, appearing in all 17 matches the following season primarily as a special team participant and linebacker understudy.
Proving his worth, Sherwood participated in every game of the latest season, commencing 16 of those outings. Remarkably, he stood alone in the NFL for demonstrating exceptional tackling ability in multiple games, recording 17 or more tackles twice—a feat not seen in the Jets since David Harris accomplished it in 2007. Last season, Sherwood also completed 10 tackles for loss, two sacks, and successfully deflected three passes.
Re-securing Sherwood’s skills raises questions about the future role of Mosley, who carries a $12.8 million salary cap hit for the current year, suggesting a potential release could be on the horizon.
