I understand it was Morrisey who wanted the bridge deal. I'm sure Jets wanted a long term deal. Surprised Chevy blinked.
If that's the case, it's good to see JM bet on himself. Last thing any player should want is to break out after signing for term.
Seth Jones took term at $5.4 million per and after 2 years of the deal, he put up 57 points. What would that be worth as a RFA this off-season? With only 2 RFA years left? Would you rather have $32.5 million guaranteed for 6 years or take $6.5 million over 2 years and bet that you can do better than $26 million over the next 4 years ($6.5 million per). It may net out over time cause contract terms on the next deal would overlap what he would get plus there's age to consider.
But, you never want to end up like Roman Josi who signed for $28 million over 7 years then break out afterwards. By the time his deal ends, he likely would have left $10 million on the table. If he took a bridge for $4 million, then $6.5 - $7 million per afterwards, then he's close to $40 million over the same 7 years.
If JM liked the number on a long term deal, I think he signs it, but it likely wasn't high enough for him. Players generally like the security if the number is pretty good.