New York Jets

New York Jets plan to lock up Wilkerson with franchise tag

Published Feb. 29, 2016 11:23 a.m. ET

Kerouac Smith

The New York Jets are planning to use the franchise tag on defensive lineman Muhammad Wilkerson before Tuesday's 4 p.m. ET deadline, according to a report by NFL Media's Kimberly Jones.

FOX Sports NFL insider Mike Garafolo confirmed the report and notes that the tag would come with a one-year salary of $15.3 million. He also says a trade involving Wilkerson remains an option.

Wilkerson, 26, has been a starter in 75 of 77 games since being drafted 30th overall by the Jets in 2011.

He turned in a career year in 2015 with 12 sacks, while also contributing heavily for a run defense that allowed just 83.4 yards per game, second-fewest in the NFL.