Jaelin Howell extends contract with Gotham FC despite just extending in June

On Thursday, NJ/NY Gotham FC announced that the club extended midfielder Jaelin Howell's contract. She will now remain with the club through 2028. This announcement came as a surprise since she extended her contract in June through 2027, making this the second one since she originally joined the NJ/NY side after a trade with Seattle Reign FC.

At the time, it was thought the extension was made too soon, but Howell continued to prove her worth to the Bats as the season progressed. Now, it is puzzling that they extended her again, less than a year from the original extension. That is not to say she does not deserve it, but rather, it is interesting that Gotham FC did it again, and at this time.

Gotham FC extends Jaelin Howell

Perhaps the club and Howell wanted to rework her contract, but they did not reveal that information. That would make sense. But if they wanted to lock her down for 2028, then there was plenty of time to do so.

While the move is confusing, it is once again deserving. Howell helps both the attack and defense, and has proven to be a cog in the machine regardless of the lineup that surrounds her. She scored four goals in 2026, but shines defensively. In fact, she is one of the best in the NWSL when it comes to duels and aerial duels.

The player is also reliable in the sense that she is always available. Gotham is fortunate that she continues to be healthy and that she is fit, as she missed only one regular-season game last year.

Additionally, Yael Averbuch West, the general manager and head of soccer operations, expressed clearly why they extended Howell. "Jaelin has been a key contributor since she joined our club, and she’s an important presence in our midfield,” she told gothamfc.com. "Her leadership, work rate, and ability to impact both sides of the ball make her a valuable part of our team, and we’re excited to have her continue with us.”

As one can see, Gotham finds her extremely valuable in the midfield and sees her as a top talent. Plus, the NJ/NY side values her leadership. Of course, that was already known, as she is a member of the leadership team.

In the end, this was a good move by the Bats that many fans will not have any issue with. However, the move does not cover the concern developing after Gotham FC's rough start to the 2026 season. Howell cannot save the team by herself; everyone must step up.

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