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Muhammad Wilkerson Grades Out As New York Jets’ Best Defender

By Kenneth Teape

Nov 29, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson (96) reacts to the crowd in the second half of the Jets 38-20 victory over the Miami Dolphins at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 29, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson (96) reacts to the crowd in the second half of the Jets 38-20 victory over the Miami Dolphins at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports /
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Muhammad Wilkerson had an outstanding season for the New York Jets, grading out as their best defender in 2015.

The New York Jets season ended with disappointment with a loss to the Buffalo Bills and Rex Ryan, crushing their playoff chances. But, it was a successful season overall, as general manager Mike Maccagnan and head coach Todd Bowles oversaw a 10-win season in their first with the Jets. That is a vast improvement over the mess that John Idzik and Ryan left for them, as they won only four games in 2014.

The offense coming together and additions to the secondary were big helps in the Jets turning things around. But, where they really got it done was at the defensive front, where the Jets are absolutely loaded. Already with Sheldon Richardson, Damon Harrison and Muhammad Wilkerson, the Jets landed Leonard Williams out of USC in the 2014 NFL Draft.

That is one of the most talented defensive line groups in the NFL, so it is no surprise that they had plenty of success this season; even the best offensive lines would struggle slowing down that kind of talent. While other parts of the team had their moments of struggle during the season, the defensive front for the Jets was consistent most of the year, with Wilkerson leading the way.

Wilkerson, according to Pro Football Focus, was the highest rated defensive player for the Jets this season. He finished the season with a final grade of 89.2, as he was one of the most dominant players in the NFL at his position. Heading into free agency, Muhammad put forth one of the best seasons in his career as he prepares for a new contract.

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Wilkerson finished the season with 64 tackles to go with a career-high 12 sacks, which tied for sixth in the NFL with Whitney Mercilus. He also forced two fumbles and had seven pass defended, which trails only J.J. Watt among defensive lineman.

According to PFF, Wilkerson played 45 percent of his snaps as an edge defender, racking up multiple pressures in all 16 games and multiple stops in 11 of 16. Wilkerson showcased that he is a force to be reckoned with, and is deserving of a big contract this offseason.

Unfortunately, he did break his leg in Week 17 against the Bills. That may hamper his value slightly in free agency, but he deserves a big contract as he once again was a difference maker for the Jets on the defensive line. He is a strong pass rusher and plays the run just as well.

Next: Who is the greatest first round pick in Jets history?

Whoever ends up signing him, whether it be the Jets or another team, will be getting a heck of a football player on their roster.

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