Currently, Muhammad Wilkerson is one of the top defensive linemen in the NFL. This is primarily why the Cleveland Browns might not be able to negotiate a trade deal with the player.
As of 2015, Wilkerson has managed to secure a total of 301 tackles, 36.5 sacks, nine forced fumbles and 21 pass deflections during his time with the New York Jets since 2011. Given that he's a very valuable player for the team and the entire league, it's no surprise that many teams are looking to sign him for next season.
But, the Jets is very aware of the fact that other teams, such as the Bears, are trying to negotiate a deal for Wilkerson. Although the New York franchise is open to the idea of trading him, it will probably do so at considerably high stakes.
For instance, as noted by the Chicago Tribune, teams could give up their first round picks just to snatch Wilkerson. Although the Bears could do this, the news site pointed out that general manager Ryan Pace would most likely not agree to this deal since it will not be worth it for the team.
In addition, even though Pace is determined in building the best possible roster for the Bears this year, he is also focused on the draft picks. Aside from getting to pick from this year's best rookie players, the cost of signing them will be significantly cheaper than what the team will most likely shell out in a trade deal for Wilkerson.
But aside from giving up their premium draft picks, another strategy that the Bears can employ is trading Wilkerson for wide receiver Alshon Jeffery. This would probably seem like a good deal for any team in the NFL, especially since Jeffery ended the 2015 season with 54 receptions.
However, for the Jets, this may not seem like an enticing offer. After all, the Jets' bench for wide receivers is still pretty deep since Eric Decker and Brandon Marshall are still in the team's roster, ESPN reported.
In addition, gaining Wilkerson and losing Jeffrey could still hurt the Bears since it would still need playmakers who can assists Jay Cutler, the team's quarterback.
