Jets, Marcus Maye not expected to agree on extension ahead of Thursday’s deadline (Report)

“We have had productive conversations with his representatives,” Douglas said back in March, per Ethan Greenberg of the team’s website. “Our stance on Marcus hasn’t changed as well. Marcus is a valuable member of this organization. Someone that started his career here, someone that’s been a pro’s pro. He’s smart, reliable and has provided outstanding leadership. Our plan hasn’t changed. We’re in the process of working to have Marcus be here long term.”

While the Jets tagged Maye, it was known the tag was likely to be utilized as a placeholder for an eventual long-term deal. The Jets didn’t want to risk Maye departing this past free agency period — the tag was to at least keep him in Florham Park with the hopes of extending his contract.

Now, his long-term future is unclear. Unless the two parties can agree on something in less than 48 hours, Maye will be playing the 2021 season on the one-year tag, which he already signed.

As for post-2021, who knows? Maye is slated to be a free agent in 2022, so there’s a chance this coming year could be his final in green.

The Jets can’t let that become the case though.

Following a two-win 2020 campaign, the organization looks to be on the verge of a productive rebuild with a new coaching staff and quarterback in place. Not to mention, the defense is possibly on the rise with Carl Lawson, C.J. Mosley, and Quinnen Williams manning the front seven.

To add to the master plan of constructing a dynasty, the Jets need a consistently reliable leader in the secondary — Maye can be that guy.

Whether the Jets commit to spending a notable amount of cash now or potentially sometime in the future, a move must be made to retain what’s obviously a talented young safety.