The New York Jets made significant changes to their roster ahead of the NFL trade deadline, trading away two of their star players, Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams. In a surprising turn of events, Gardner, a two-time All-Pro cornerback, was dealt to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for two first-round draft picks and wide receiver Adonai Mitchell.
This trade will see the Jets receiving the Colts” first-round selections in 2026 and 2027. Meanwhile, defensive tackle Quinnen Williams is heading to the Dallas Cowboys, with the Jets acquiring a second-round pick in 2026, a first-round pick in 2027, along with defensive tackle Mazi Smith.
These trades mark a significant shift for the Jets, who have been struggling in recent seasons. By parting ways with two of their most talented players, the organization appears to be looking toward the future with a focus on rebuilding through the draft.
Both Gardner and Williams have been instrumental in the Jets” defensive strategies, and their departures leave a gap that the team will need to address moving forward. The NFL trade deadline, set for Tuesday, has already seen a flurry of activity, with this being one of the most impactful moves as teams position themselves for the remainder of the season.
The Jets” strategy indicates a long-term vision, while the Colts and Cowboys bolster their rosters with proven talent. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these trades affect the performance of all three teams involved.
