Sauce Gardner, a standout cornerback for the New York Jets, is entering his fourth season and is now eligible for a long-term contract extension. Selected as the No. 4 overall pick in the 2022 NFL draft, he has quickly become a cornerstone of the Jets' defense, earning two first-team All-Pro honors and two Pro Bowl selections. On the eve of the NFL's May 1 deadline, the Jets exercised Gardner's fifth-year option, securing him for the 2026 season at an expected $20.18 million salary. With Gardner's impressive stats of 181 tackles, 40 passes defended, and three interceptions over 48 starts, the Jets are eager to keep him long-term, though contract discussions remain confidential.