For weeks, the New York Jets have expressed optimism about their chances of signing star defensive tackle Quinnen Williams to a contract extension, Rich Cimini of ESPN New York reports. They took it up another notch Tuesday, with coach Robert Saleh stating matter-of-factly that Williams -- absent for voluntary workouts -- will report to training camp with a new deal.

"I speak for everyone -- I probably speak for Quinnen -- in that we all want get done sooner rather than later," Saleh before practice. "I'll let the business guys handle all that stuff, but it's going to get done. He'll be here for camp. He'll be ready to roll and once he is, I'm sure it'll be the same guy who was here."

The question of whether Williams will report to next week's mandatory minicamp is moot, as Saleh announced he was cancelling it. He cited the early reporting date for training camp as the main reason, saying he wants to give the players a break after a productive offseason.

Because they play in the Hall of Fame Game on Aug. 3 -- they face the Cleveland Browns in Canton, Ohio -- the Jets will open camp a week earlier than usual. A date hasn't been announced, but it will be around July 19.

Williams, 25, due to make a guaranteed $9.6 million in the final year of his contract (his fifth-year option), said after the season that he wouldn't report until he receives a contract extension. He has, in fact, stayed away from all voluntary workouts, more than once expressing frustration on social media.

The two sides have talked sporadically throughout the offseason, with team officials giving positive updates at each turn.

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