FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- New York Jets defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson, in negotiations for a long-term contract extension, left practice early Sunday with a hamstring injury.
Wilkerson "tweaked" his hamstring, according to coach Todd Bowles, who didn't seem concerned.
"I don't think it's serious," Bowles said after practice. "If it loosens up a bit, it should be OK. He shouldn't be out long."
Wilkerson, accompanied by a trainer, retired to the locker room about midway through practice. He went inside to "stretch out" his hamstring, Bowles said.
The Jets can't afford a serious injury on the defensive line. They already will be without Sheldon Richardson, who is facing a four-game suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy. The suspension could be longer if the NFL determines his July 14 arrest violates the league's personal conduct policy. He was charged with resisting arrest, a misdemeanor.
Richardson, relegated to backup duty in training camp, replaced Wilkerson in the lineup.
Wilkerson, due to make a guaranteed $6.97 million, is entering the final year of his rookie contract. The two sides are engaged in negotiations, although nothing appears imminent. Wilkerson, admittedly frustrated he doesn't have a new deal yet, has said he will shelve talks if an agreement can't be worked out by the start of the regular season.
"We want to have Muhammad a part of this organization for a long time," general manager Mike Maccagnan said Saturday. "With all the things that have happened on recently, nothing has really changed on that. To me, our goal is to get Muhammad in the organization long term, and it will just work itself out."
Wilkerson, a first-round pick in 2011, has started 61 games. He has 24 career sacks and seven forced fumbles.