New York Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner took a break from his training and ongoing contract discussions this week to showcase the relentless traffic congestion in Manhattan. On Wednesday, Gardner shared a moment from behind the wheel of his $400,000 Rolls-Royce Cullinan, capturing the standstill traffic ahead on Instagram.
“NY shouldnt have traffic at 1 pm,”
Gardner said in his Instagram story, expressing his frustration with the unusual midday gridlock in the city.
Balancing contract talks with on-field focus
Despite everyday distractions like traffic, Gardner remains committed to progressing through his contract talks with the Jets. On July 2, during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Gardner described the discussions as positive while emphasizing his continued dedication to football.
“We have our goals, in terms of numbers and stuff like that, and the Jets are aware of that,” Gardner said on the show.
His current rookie contract, which includes team options that could extend through 2026, has prompted speculation about his eventual placement among the NFL’s top-paid cornerbacks. With other young defensive backs recently securing significant extensions, Gardner’s negotiations reflect a broader league trend. For context, his deal carries a cap hit of $10.6 million in 2025 and $20.1 million in 2026.
Gardner’s public profile extends beyond football
Besides his on-field achievements and contract focus, Gardner’s growing celebrity status has attracted media attention. His well-known appearances with rapper Ice Spice over the last year have fueled persistent rumors about their relationship. Despite public interest, neither has openly defined their connection.
In a June 6 interview with TMZ Sports, Gardner acknowledged their mutual understanding born from shared experiences under public scrutiny, saying,
“Two people that get hated on that’s really good at what we do, so we’ve got a lot in common,” Gardner explained.
The pair have been seen together at various events, maintaining a low profile regarding their personal lives while frequently featured in social media and public appearances.
Implications for Gardner’s future with the Jets
Sauce Gardner’s traffic frustration offers a glimpse into his everyday challenges off the field, amidst significant contract negotiations with the Jets. As talks continue, his focus on football remains unwavering even while balancing public attention and personal life. The outcome of these discussions will likely shape the Jets’ defensive future and Gardner’s standing among the league’s elite cornerbacks.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Sauce Gardner believe in God?
A. SAUCE GARDNER’s posts convey that his greatest source of pride is his devotion to God and his faith in Christ.
Q. Why did Sauce Gardner not play?
A. Gardner won’t play in the Jets’ last game of the season due to a lingering hamstring injury. He was also absent during the Week 14 game against Miami.
Q. Why is Sauce Gardner not playing?
A. Sauce Gardner did not practice on Wednesday due to a hamstring issue. He worsened an existing hamstring strain last week. Since the Jets are already out of playoff contention, they see no urgent need to hurry his return. It’s very doubtful he will play against the Dolphins in their unimportant Week 18 matchup.
Q. Is Sauce Gardner any good?
A. Gardner, who has been named All-Pro twice, played in 15 games during the 2024 season, his third year in the pros. He made 49 tackles, defended 9 passes, and grabbed an interception. According to PFF NFL writer John Kosko, Gardner has had the highest coverage grade of 91.9 since 2022.