The New York Jets are officially in the deal-making business. Fresh off a surprising player-for-player swap, the franchise holding the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming draft is signaling its willingness to shake up the roster even further. The team's front office, led by GM Darren Mougey, has made it clear that the recent trade is just the beginning of a potentially active period.
A Foundation-Shaking Trade
In a move that got the NFL world talking, the Jets sent Pro Bowl edge rusher Jermaine Johnson to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for young nose tackle T'Vondre Sweat. Johnson, who recorded three sacks and six QB hits for New York last season, now reunites with his former head coach, Robert Saleh, in Nashville. In return, the Jets acquire a promising interior force in Sweat, a 2024 second-round pick who has amassed 85 tackles and three sacks through his first two professional seasons.
This isn't merely a one-off transaction, however. According to Jets insider Connor Hughes of SNY, the team's decision-makers are actively engaged in conversations at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. "The #Jets are not having a fire sale, but Jermaine Johnson isn't the only player available," Hughes reported. "Was told from multiple sources... that they are open to dealing & listening." This stance suggests a strategic openness to reshape the team's core.
Who Could Be Next on the Move?
With the door now wide open, speculation is running rampant about which Jets might be wearing new colors next season. While the team reportedly values pass rusher Will McDonald IV, who led the squad with 8.0 sacks in 2025, other notable names are floating in the trade rumor mill.
A major focal point is star running back Breece Hall. Coming off his first 1,000-yard campaign, Hall is technically not under contract for 2026. The Jets are expected to use a franchise tag if a long-term deal isn't reached, but that move could also make him a prime trade chip to acquire more draft capital. His dynamic playmaking ability would draw significant interest from contenders across the league.
The reality is that very few players on the current roster feel truly untouchable. Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn inherited a team in transition, and they've shown a clear willingness to make bold moves to build it in their image. Last season's trade deadline was a clear indicator, as the team dealt cornerstone defenders Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams for a haul of premium draft picks.
Building Through the Draft
This aggressive strategy appears centered on amassing draft assets. The Jets already hold four selections within the top 50 of the 2026 NFL Draft, and they could potentially have five picks in the first two rounds next year. This treasure trove of capital gives the front office immense flexibility—they can use the picks to select foundational young talent or package them in trades to acquire established stars.
The message from the Jets' brass is unambiguous: they are evaluating every avenue to improve. The trade for T'Vondre Sweat addresses a need on the defensive interior, but it also serves as a declaration of intent. The organization is not content with the status quo and is proactively seeking opportunities to accelerate its rebuild.
For fans in New York and observers around the NFL, the next few weeks promise to be fascinating. With the Combine serving as a central hub for league conversations, the Jets have positioned themselves as one of the most active and intriguing teams to watch. Whether it's dealing another veteran or maneuvering up and down the draft board, one thing is certain—the Jets are open for business, and they're just getting started.
