On Saturday, the Jets made sure they locked up defensive veteran and team leader Steve McLendon for another season.
New York signed McLendon to a contract extension through the 2020 season. He was scheduled to become a free agent following this season.
In four games this season, the 33-year-old McLendon has totaled 11 tackles and one sack. He has arguably been the Jets’ best defensive lineman this season with Quinnen Williams injured and Leonard Williams and Henry Anderson underperforming.
The Jets originally signed McLendon as a free agent to replace Damon Harrison back in 2016. Since coming over from Pittsburgh, McLendon has appeared in 43 games for and recorded 119 tackles and six sacks.
Adam Gase and Todd Bowles have both sang McLendon’s praises, noting his leadership abilities. He has become the Jets’ best-run stuffer, one of the team’s most vocal leaders and a defensive captain.
Now, he’ll be around for at least another year.
