The New York Jets have demonstrated their belief in All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner by offering him a four-year, $120 million contract extension. Despite this significant investment, Gardner faces the challenge of proving he can overcome a difficult third NFL season and return to his previous elite form.

Gardner’s first two years showcased his exceptional talent, earning back-to-back first-team All-Pro selections. However, in 2024, he struggled by allowing the most yards, receptions, and touchdowns among corners, in addition to accumulating more penalties than in his first two seasons combined. With a new coaching staff in place, the Jets and Gardner are hopeful that 2025 will mark a turnaround.

Gardner Aims to Recapture All-Pro Form in New Season

During his fourth training camp with the Jets, Gardner has appeared to regain the sharpness and confidence that defined his early career. At 24 years old, this promising start to the offseason indicates he is working to reclaim his status as one of the league’s top corners. However, the real test will be showing the NFL that last year’s struggles were an anomaly.

Unlike many players who might shrink under scrutiny, Gardner embraces the pressure. Reflecting on his mindset, he said,

I love it, I love how everything I do is under a microscope,

and later added,

Everything I do is under a microscope. And I love that. I love challenges. I love everything about that, and it took me a little time to have that mentality, but I embrace it now. A lot.

Pressure Mounts as Expectations Remain High

Since entering the league, Gardner has been regarded as one of the best corners in the NFL, but last season sparked questions about whether he can return to that level. One <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/afc/”>AFC personnel veteran ranked him fifth among corners but stressed the need for improvement, stating,

Needs a bounce-back year in 2025,

and added criticism for missed tackles, penalties, and a lack of impactful plays.

Gardner’s draft class includes Derek Stingley, who has also earned All-Pro recognition, while Patrick Surtain II, another top corner, claimed the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2024. Gardner’s potential to surpass these peers is well known inside the Jets organization, but proving it on the field remains essential.

Jets Confident in Gardner’s Path Forward

New York’s training camp performance suggests that Gardner is on a promising path to regain his elite form. The Jets have invested heavily because they believe in his talent and ability to respond positively to last season’s setbacks. As the regular season approaches, Gardner’s performance will determine if he can justify the contract hype and solidify his place among the NFL’s top defenders.