Many of David Harris’ Jets teammates showed up at his charity golf tournament in New Jersey on Monday, but Muhammad Wilkerson was not one of them.
It was not a surprise. Wilkerson has stayed away from all Jets activities this spring. Wilkerson is seeking a long-term contract, which the team appears unlikely to give him. The Jets applied the franchise tag, giving them a deadline of July 15 to agree to a long-term deal or Wilkerson will play this season for $15.7 million and be a free agent next year.
Harris is hoping the Jets and Wilkerson can settle on terms soon, so Wilkerson can return to work.
“He’s the leader of the D-line,” Harris said. “Actually, he’s one of the leaders of the defense. He’s a tremendous talent. He is one of the best D-ends in this league, hands down. I hope he’s here.”
Jets defenders are excited about Year 2 under coach Todd Bowles, but Wilkerson’s absence leaves a big hole up front.
“He’s one of our better players on defense, maybe our best player on defense, so we need him back,” cornerback Buster Skrine said.
Harris has welcomed first-round pick Darron Lee to the Jets, even though Lee is from Ohio State and Harris is a Michigan man.
“That don’t mean anything on this level,” Harris said.
Despite his Buckeye roots, Lee has some traits that have impressed Harris.
“He’s a fast learner,” Harris said. “He’s very athletic, which is obvious. I think he’ll be a huge asset to the team.”
Offensive coordinator Chan Gailey has already begun envisioning ways to use new running back Matt Forte, who is a great pass catcher as well as a runner.
“It will be a challenge,” Gailey said. “It’s different, but it will be a fun challenge. We’ve already started talking about some things and developing some things, but you can’t get too bent out of shape because what if he gets hurt, god forbid. You’ve still got to be able to handle the rest of the offense.”
Cornerback Darrelle Revis did not speak with reporters. He did not play in the golf tournament, but came to support Harris. Revis was wearing a soft bandage on his surgically repaired right wrist.
Harris has hosted the golf tournament every year since 2011. It benefits Give the Kids Hope Foundation, which helps underprivileged children in New Jersey.