Jets' Sauce Gardner Eyes Expanded Role in Defense

The All-Pro cornerback aims to shadow top receivers, pushing for a new challenge in his third NFL season.

Gardner has requested to cover opponents' No. 1 wide receivers, moving beyond his usual left-cornerback position.
Coach Robert Saleh is open to the idea but plans to use Gardner's new role selectively based on game situations.
Gardner's performance has been stellar, earning him first-team All-Pro honors in his first two seasons.
He is projected to sign a historic contract extension next offseason, potentially becoming the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL.
Gardner's leadership on and off the field is growing, mentoring younger players and engaging with fans on social media.