Linebacker Calvin Pace picked the right time to have a career year, as his strong showing in 2013 ensured his return to the Jets in 2014.
After a career-high 10-sack performance, Pace earned himself another go-round with the Jets, who on Sunday secured him with a two-year, $5 million deal. Pace turns 34 in October, but he prospered a year ago playing alongside Muhammad Wilkerson and Sheldon Richardson. Pace played for $1 million a year ago so his new contract reflects the job he did in 2013.
“With Calvin, he knows our system so well,” coach Rex Ryan said last month at the NFL combine. “It’s such a comfort level for me that way, but when you guys asked me about who’s the most improved player — clearly, Geno [Smith] was an improved player. You can see that statistically. But how about Calvin Pace? I don’t care how old Calvin was. He had 10 sacks. He had a tremendous year.’’
Pace and linebacker David Harris are the only two defensive players who have been with the Jets for Ryan’s first five seasons.