The Jets have made significant moves recently, trading away two of their top players while still aiming to win this season—although that seems increasingly difficult.
In a dramatic turn of events on what may be a pivotal day for the franchise, the Jets traded Sauce Gardner to the Colts and Quinnen Williams to the Cowboys at the trade deadline. This confirms many observers’ doubt that the Jets are looking ahead to the future, with an eye on next year’s drafts.
Gardner was traded for first-round selections in 2026 and 2027, along with receiver Adonai Mitchell, while Williams netted them a first-round pick in 2027, a second-round pick in 2026, and defensive tackle Maji Smith.
“It was an offer we couldn’t refuse,” general manager Darren Mousey commented.
With these trades, the Jets now boast two first-round picks—including possibly the overall number one—and two second-round picks in 2026. Plus, they have three first-round picks and a second-round pick set for 2027, which is being heralded as a particularly strong class.
This gives the Jets valuable assets to pursue a franchise quarterback, whether that’s through a trade for a veteran or selecting one in the draft.
“We see this as a chance to be flexible,” Mousey added.
This bold move should alleviate concerns regarding the job security of Mousey and head coach Aaron Glenn, who have been given leeway to rebuild despite the team’s poor performance thus far.
“I wouldn’t label this as a teardown,” Mousey insisted.
He asserted that, despite losing star players, winning remains a priority for the Jets, possibly signaling to players and fans alike.
“The fans deserve it, the players deserve it, and so do the coaches,” he remarked. “Our immediate focus is on the Browns this Sunday, and that’s everything that matters right now.”
According to financial analysis site Spotrac, the Jets are letting go of two Pro Bowlers and will face around $43 million in salary cap penalties through 2026. At the same time, they are expected to have about $117 million in cap space for free agency.
Just a few months ago, Gardner signed a hefty four-year contract worth $120.4 million, making him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history. Alongside receiver Garrett Wilson, he was supposed to be part of a new foundation for the team.
“We were always in talks about these contracts, aiming to maintain flexibility for possible trades,” Mousey said.
The Jets appear to be going through a rapid transformation, yet they were firm in stating that receiver Wilson is not available for trade. There are also some key considerations going forward:
- Running back Breece Hall, who is a pending free agent and could qualify for a franchise tag around $14.1 million.
- Edge rusher Jermaine Johnson is signed on a fifth-year option for 2026 at $13.4 million.
- Linebacker Quincy Williams, although a favorite among coaches, is also a 29-year-old free agent.
Gardner, at just 25, had two impressive seasons as a first-team All-Pro and seemed to genuinely appreciate being part of the Jets. However, he struggled with interceptions, recording only three in his entire career. “The opportunity with Indianapolis became too appealing to overlook,” Mousey mentioned.
Williams, now 27, reportedly requested a trade, with the Cowboys being his ideal landing spot to reunite with former Jets defensive line assistant coach Aaron Whitecotton.
The recent changes also reflect the dissatisfaction Williams felt with another rebuild after Aaron Rodgers’s departure, as his record sinks to 31-67. His contract’s average salary of $24 million through 2027 is becoming less relevant, and he might soon seek a raise.
Mousey chose not to address Williams’ trade request directly, stating, “Many aspects influence these decisions, but I can’t discuss contracts.”
According to an NFL executive, the Jets made savvy moves, particularly with the Colts trade. However, there’s pressure to effectively utilize the picks obtained since they’ve given up two key players.
The players acquired—Smith and Mitchell—are still on their rookie contracts but haven’t yet lived up to expectations. Smith will help cover Williams’ absence, while Mitchell addresses the Jets’ need for a capable receiver.
In a minor trade, the Jets also acquired defensive back Jasar Taylor for a conditional seventh-round pick in 2028.
Notably, none of the draft picks prior to 2021 remain on the roster, save for long snapper Thomas Hennessy from the previous general manager’s era.
