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Muhammad Wilkerson

College Football Career at Temple University

Wilkerson joined Temple University in 2008 and quickly emerged as a standout defensive player. By his junior season in 2010, he had established himself as one of the top defensive linemen in the country, earning first-team All-Mid-American Conference honors. His performances made him a key figure in Temple's football program and caught the attention of NFL scouts.

Related Biography: Calais Campbell

Professional Career and the New York Jets

Muhammad Wilkerson entered the NFL as the 30th overall pick in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft, selected by the New York Jets. He became the highest NFL draft pick from Temple University at the time. Wilkerson signed his rookie contract on July 31, 2011—a four-year deal worth $7.4 million. He made his professional debut against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 18, 2011.

In his early seasons, Wilkerson was a key part of the Jets' defensive line. His performance led to a significant contract extension in 2016: a five-year, $86 million deal, including $53 million in guaranteed money. Despite a promising start, Wilkerson suffered a leg injury in 2016, which impacted both his performance and the Jets’ overall defensive effectiveness. Recovery proved challenging, but Wilkerson remained committed to making a return to the field.

Community Engagement and Net Worth

As of recent estimates, Muhammad Wilkerson has a net worth of approximately $17.4 million. In 2015, his base salary was around $6.97 million, not including bonuses. Beyond football, Wilkerson is known for his philanthropic efforts. He has made it a personal mission to give back to his community and regularly participates in charitable events, including an annual tradition of distributing Thanksgiving meals to families in need.

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Quick Facts
Birth Date: 22 Oct, 1989
Age: 30 yrs
Occupations: American football player
Citizenship: United States of America
Birth Place: Linden
Education: Linden High School
Gender: Male
Description: American football player, defensive lineman
Net Worth 2021: 33 million
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Last Modified: Jan 9 2025
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