Who is Sauce Gardner? Career, $120.4M Contract, and Net Worth Explained

Sauce Gardner is one of the brightest young stars in the NFL. Known for his elite coverage skills, he recently made headlines with a record-breaking $120.4 million contract extension and a blockbuster trade from the New York Jets to the Indianapolis Colts in November 2025.

The 25-year-old cornerback’s journey from Detroit to NFL superstardom is marked by rapid success, financial growth, and an impressive reputation as the league’s top defensive back.

Sauce Gardner’s Career and Rise to Stardom

Born Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner on August 31, 2000, in Detroit, Michigan, he earned his nickname “A1 Sauce Sweet Feet” from a youth football coach. After excelling at Martin Luther King Jr. High School, he played college football at the University of Cincinnati, where he became a three-time All-AAC selection and 2021 AAC Defensive Player of the Year.

In the 2022 NFL Draft, Gardner was selected fourth overall by the New York Jets. His rookie season was nothing short of spectacular — he won the **NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year** award and was named **First-Team All-Pro**, becoming the first cornerback in nearly four decades to achieve that as a rookie. He repeated the feat in 2023, solidifying his reputation as a generational talent.

Inside Sauce Gardner’s $120.4 Million Contract

In July 2025, the New York Jets signed Gardner to a **four-year, $120.4 million contract extension**, making him the **highest-paid cornerback in NFL history** at the time. The deal includes **$85.6 million guaranteed** and carries an average annual value of **$30.1 million**.

The contract begins in 2027 after his rookie deal ends, locking Gardner with his team through the **2030 season**. His 2025 cap hit sits at approximately **$9.38 million**, rising to **$12.25 million** in 2026 before the extension kicks in. Analysts described it as a “market-setting” deal that redefines cornerback value across the NFL.

However, just four months later, in a stunning deadline move, the **Jets traded Gardner to the Indianapolis Colts** for two first-round draft picks and wide receiver A.D. Mitchell. The Colts, sitting at 7-2, saw Gardner as the final piece to elevate their defense for a Super Bowl run.

Sauce Gardner’s Salary and Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Sauce Gardner’s **net worth is estimated between $15 million and $20 million**, according to multiple reports. His wealth stems primarily from his rookie deal, signing bonuses, and endorsements, including his partnership with Buffalo Wild Wings for the “Sauce Sauce” line.

While the new contract’s biggest payouts begin in 2027, Gardner’s annual cash flow will soon rank among the NFL’s elite defensive players. His long-term earnings potential — combined with growing off-field sponsorships — is expected to raise his net worth well beyond $50 million by the end of the decade.

Impact of Gardner’s Trade and Legacy

Gardner’s move to the Colts signals a major power shift in the AFC. He joins a 7-2 squad looking to strengthen its secondary after allowing over 244 passing yards per game. The pairing of Gardner with veterans like Kenny Moore II and Charvarius Ward instantly makes Indianapolis one of the league’s most dangerous defensive units.

For the Jets, the trade reflects a rebuild amid a disappointing 1-7 start. For Gardner, it’s a fresh chapter on a contending team — one where his record-setting deal and elite play can align with championship contention.

With his new destination, elite record, and landmark contract, Sauce Gardner stands as both a football icon and one of the most valuable defensive players in modern NFL history.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is Sauce Gardner?

Sauce Gardner is an American football cornerback, drafted fourth overall by the New York Jets in 2022, and now plays for the Indianapolis Colts after a 2025 trade.

Q2: What is Sauce Gardner’s contract worth?

He signed a four-year, $120.4 million contract with $85.6 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history.

Q3: What is Sauce Gardner’s current net worth?

His net worth is estimated at $15–20 million in 2025, expected to grow significantly with his new deal and endorsements.

Q4: Why did the Jets trade Sauce Gardner?

The Jets traded Gardner to the Colts for two first-round picks and WR A.D. Mitchell amid a 1-7 season, signaling a rebuild.

Q5: What are Sauce Gardner’s career highlights?

Two-time First-Team All-Pro, 2022 Defensive Rookie of the Year, and youngest player to record back-to-back All-Pro honors since the 1970s.