The New York Jets, facing a turbulent 2025 season with a challenging 0-7 start, are widely expected to be significant sellers at the upcoming NFL trade deadline. This pivotal moment prompts intense speculation among fans and analysts about which veteran players could be on the move and where they might land, as the franchise looks to recoup value and build for the future.
The New York Jets find themselves in a familiar position as the NFL trade deadline approaches. With a disappointing start to the 2025 season, the team is signaling a shift towards rebuilding, making several key players potential trade assets. This strategy reflects a broader organizational decision to acquire future draft capital rather than attempt a late-season turnaround.
For fans, understanding the trade landscape involves not just who might be traded, but also the historical context of similar moves and the strategic rationale behind each potential deal.
A Look Back: Past Trade Rumors and Realities
The Jets are no strangers to mid-season adjustments and trade discussions. In recent years, the team has actively reshaped its roster through trades and releases when players haven’t fit the long-term vision or current scheme.
- Carl Lawson and Dalvin Cook (2023): Prior to the 2023 trade deadline, edge rusher Carl Lawson and running back Dalvin Cook were prominent names in trade discussions. Lawson, in the final year of his contract, saw a significant reduction in snap counts, while Cook, a free-agent acquisition, struggled to find his form. While trade proposals suggested a Day 3 pick for Lawson and a move to the Baltimore Ravens for Cook, neither player was traded by the deadline. Carl Lawson finished the 2023 season with the Jets, later signing with the Houston Texans as a free agent. Dalvin Cook was eventually released by the Jets in January 2024 and signed with the Baltimore Ravens, as reported by NFL.com.
- Mecole Hardman (2023): The Jets didn’t hesitate to move slot receiver Mecole Hardman in 2023 after he failed to carve out a role, totaling just one reception in six games before being traded.
- Zach Wilson (2023-2024): Following continued struggles, quarterback Zach Wilson’s future with the Jets became a consistent topic of conversation. While various landing spots like the Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, and New Orleans Saints were speculated, Wilson ultimately remained with the team until the 2024 offseason. He was then traded to the Denver Broncos in April 2024, a move confirmed by NFL.com.
These past situations underscore the Jets’ willingness to make tough decisions for roster reconstruction, setting the stage for the current 2025 trade deadline.
The 2025 Trade Block: Key Jets Candidates and Their Ideal Destinations
According to insider reports, the new regime in New York, led by general manager Darren Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn, is prepared to part with even “foundational” players if it strengthens the team’s long-term outlook. This approach prioritizes building a young core through draft capital.
Here’s an in-depth look at the top potential trade candidates and their suggested landing spots, as analyzed by USA TODAY Sports:
Running Back Breece Hall: The Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers are in dire need of backfield reinforcements with lead running back Omarion Hampton on injured reserve, expected to miss significant time. While Kimani Vidal has shown flashes, a veteran presence is crucial for a team with playoff aspirations.
Breece Hall is off to a strong start in 2025, on pace for his first 1,000-yard season despite playing in a struggling Jets offense. His ability to produce in a challenging environment makes him an attractive target. As Hall is set to hit free agency after this season, a move to Los Angeles would allow him to step into a prominent role and provide the Chargers with a much-needed boost.
Wide Receiver Allen Lazard: The Pittsburgh Steelers
Allen Lazard has become a non-factor in the Jets’ post-Aaron Rodgers passing offense, recording just six catches for 40 yards and a single touchdown through five games. A move to Pittsburgh, potentially reuniting him with a Rodgers-led offense (assuming Rodgers is still with the Steelers in 2025 as the article implies), appears to be an ideal solution.
The Steelers, currently atop the AFC North at 4-2, are in “win now” mode and desperately need help at wide receiver. Lazard’s familiarity with Rodgers’ system, which saw him tally over 500 receiving yards in three consecutive seasons catching passes from the veteran, could make him a valuable asset for Pittsburgh’s playoff push.
Edge Rusher Jermaine Johnson II: The Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville’s defense has been strong in the secondary, but their failure to generate sacks remains a significant issue, with the team ranking near the bottom of the league. While Josh Hines-Allen has been effective in pressures, his sack numbers don’t reflect his disruption.
Jermaine Johnson II would provide a much-needed boost to the Jaguars’ pass rush rotation. Two years removed from a 7.5-sack season, Johnson brings Pro Bowl potential and has also graded out well in run defense, an area where the Jaguars currently rank 30th in run-stop win rate. His addition could significantly elevate Jacksonville’s defensive front.
Edge Rusher Will McDonald IV: The Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are grappling with a rash of injuries to their edge rushers, including Nolan Smith, Ogbo Okoronkwo, and Azeez Ojulari. The recent retirement of Za’Darius Smith and the un-retirement of 37-year-old Brandon Graham underscore their urgent need for help on the defensive line. Philadelphia also struggles with run defense, ranking 26th in run-stop win rate.
Will McDonald IV is an excellent fit, already boasting two sacks this season and demonstrating his impact by blocking a field goal. He’s also recognized as a top-five run-stopping edge rusher, addressing both of Philadelphia’s critical needs. With McDonald under contract for at least another year and a fifth-year option for 2027, he represents a valuable long-term solution.
Linebacker Quincy Williams: The San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers suffered a major blow with star linebacker Fred Warner out for the season due to a dislocated and broken ankle. While second-year player Tatum Bethune has performed admirably in the starting role, San Francisco could benefit from additional veteran depth.
Once he returns from a shoulder injury, Quincy Williams would provide the 49ers with an experienced presence in the middle of their defense. Williams, a first-team All-Pro in 2023, could bolster any of the inside linebacker spots, offering crucial support in Warner’s absence. Whether he starts or provides high-level depth, his impact would be significant for a contending team.
Cornerback Michael Carter II: The Washington Commanders
The Commanders’ secondary has struggled significantly this season, ranking among the bottom-10 teams in average dropback EPA allowed. Veteran Marshon Lattimore and second-year slot cornerback Mike Sainristil have both faced challenges, prompting Washington to seek improvements.
Michael Carter II, a slot-only cornerback, offers a direct solution to Washington’s issues. By taking on the nickel role, Carter would allow Sainristil to move back outside, a position where he performed better during the latter half of last season. This strategic move could solidify the Commanders’ secondary, potentially pairing Sainristil with rookie Trey Amos on the outside and reducing the exposure of a struggling Lattimore.
The Fan Perspective: Embracing the Rebuild
For the loyal Jets fanbase, a trade-deadline sell-off, while often difficult to stomach in the short term, represents a necessary step towards a brighter future. The acquisition of Day 3 draft capital, as suggested for players like Carl Lawson in past discussions, or higher picks for current impactful veterans, is crucial for restocking the roster with young talent.
This approach speaks to a commitment from the new regime to build a sustainable contender, acknowledging that the current season’s trajectory requires a strategic pivot. Fans are eager to see how these potential moves will reshape the team, creating new opportunities for developing players and setting the foundation for future success.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming NFL trade deadline will be a critical period for the New York Jets. The decisions made regarding these key players will not only impact their immediate performance but will also significantly influence the direction and timeline of their ongoing rebuild. For fans, it’s a moment of both apprehension and anticipation, watching as the team strategically positions itself for future contention.
