Michael Wilson has parlayed his breakout 2025 season into a life-altering contract extension. On Thursday, Wilson came to terms on a three-year, $75 million extension, according to ESPN. The deal has a maximum value of $78 million and includes $47 million guaranteed.
A 2023 third-round pick, the 26-year-old Wilson was entering the final year of his rookie contract this season. Instead of entering a contract year, Wilson has now become one of the NFL's highest-paid No. 2 receivers. He is now tied with DeVonta Smith as the 21st highest-paid receiver in terms of average annual salary.
Tee Higgins and George Pickens are the only No. 2 receivers who make more in terms of average annual salary. Wilson's contract extension comes after a 2025 season that saw him set career-highs in receptions (78), receiving yards (1,006) and touchdown receptions (7). Making Wilson's success even more impressive is the fact that he was often the primary focus of opposing defenses.
The Cardinals' decision to pay Wilson now was the right move for several reasons. Wilson's stock rose following his 2025 season, and there was a good chance it would rise again if he was able to duplicate or exceed last year's numbers this season. Instead of paying more or potentially losing him in free agency, the Cardinals chose to take care of Wilson now while keeping him under contract for the foreseeable future.
Wilson is an expensive No. 2 receiver, but it's money that was worth spending for the Cardinals. When you're not a preferred landing spot, you often need to spend more for talent. That appears to be the situation here.
The Cardinals' best way to get talent is to keep their best homegrown players. Also, by locking in Wilson now, there's a chance that the contract becomes a bargain. Wilson is just entering his prime and could potentially become a No.1 receiver.
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