EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 29: Defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson #96 of the New York Jets celebrates a tackle against running back Tevin Coleman #26 (not pictured) of the Atlanta Falcons with teammate strong safety Jamal Adams #33 during the third quarter of the game at MetLife Stadium on October 29, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

Former first-round draft pick released from the only franchise he's ever played for

He's a free agent.

Muhammad Wilkerson, a veteran defensive standout, has been released by the New York Jets. This news, pretty much naturally, came by way of ESPN's Adam Schefter on the mean streets of Twitter.

A former first-round NFL Draft pick, Wilkerson has been on the wrong side of nearly everything after signing a large contract two years ago. He had 4.5 sacks in 2016 and 3.5 in 2017 during his two-year big money run. This came after having 12 in 2015, when he made his only Pro Bowl appearance.

The Jets save $16.75 million in salary by cutting him now.

Only 28, it will be interesting to see what kind of value Wilkerson has on the market. While he hasn't exactly been great the last two years, with many people questioning his work ethic, he does have the sort of natural freakish abilities that will result in at least one franchise wanting to go after him.

In three straight seasons, 2015-17, Wilkerson had issues with the franchise that resulted in punishment. He was suspended one quarter of a game due to tardiness. Also in 2017, he was benched for the Jets' trip to New Orleans, for the same reason.

If he can stay on time, he might make another NFL team very happy.