With the New York Jets have many holes up and down their roster and them coming off a 2-14 season, Joe Douglas will have a lot on his to-do list. He has made it clear that one of the team’s biggest priorities entering 2021 is to retain starting safety, Marcus Maye.
With his contract expiring, the team is eager to get him back, as Maye has no intentions of leaving New York either. This is great news for the Jets, as they clearly cannot afford to lose a player like Maye.
Jets Expected to Franchise Tag Marcus Maye
According to SNY NFL Insider Ralph Vacchiano, the Jets are reportedly likely to place the franchise tag on Maye. That way it gives both sides extended time to work out a future deal.
The franchise tag for safeties is expected to be a cap hit of around $11 million. This would be well worth it for a player as talented as Maye. The 27-year-old is hitting the prime years of his career. In the last two seasons, he has shown durability (playing all 32 games) and has improved each year. He is coming off a career year in 2020, being one of the few bright spots during a miserable campaign. Maye registered 88 total tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles and two interceptions.
From the butt interception versus the Miami Dolphins to the crucial pass deflections versus the Los Angeles Rams, Maye had a breakout season. His consistency and playmaking abilities make him one of the most valuable players on the entire roster. It looks promising that he will only get better from here. He stepped up when he needed to, once Jamal Adams was traded. Maye should be considered a big piece to build around for years to come.
The franchise tag would be the most logical move, and carries little to zero risk. From now until March 9th, the Jets can place the tag on him during the NFL tagging window. It would not be surprising if Maye is placed under the tag within the next week.
