Jets Pro Bowl defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson came in at No. 39 on NFL Network's "Top 100 Players of 2016." This is the third consecutive year he has been named to the Top 100 and he is the second member of the team to make the list, joining No. 90 Matt Forte.
Wilkerson put together his best statistical season in 2015 with career highs in sacks (12) and passes defended (7). The 12 sacks were the second-most among NFL 3-4 defensive linemen and helped propel Wilkerson to his first Pro Bowl selection.
"He's one of those guys who can do anything he wants, at any time," said Washington T Trent Williams in the NFLN video.
The versatile Wilkerson, who helped the Jets establish a franchise mark for fewest rushing yards per game, also helped young teammates find their way.
"I say personally, he got me hyped off my first year," said OLB Lorenzo Mauldin. "He made me want to do more than what I intended. He's a great leader for the D-line."
On three occasions last season, Wilkerson recorded multiple-sack efforts including a two-sack performance against the Bills in Week 9.
"I think the best part about him is that he can do everything," said Bills C Eric Wood. "He lines up at end, he lines up at 3-technique, he lines up at nose. There's not too many guys that can do it. He just kind of goes about his business and beats everybody. He's really made a name for himself in this league."
The Jets placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Wilkerson in March and the veteran lineman is continuing his rehab following offseason surgery on his leg.
