The New York Jets concluded another challenging season with a 3-14 record and are now preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, aiming to add a transformational player. Holding the No. 2 overall pick, just behind the Las Vegas Raiders who are expected to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza from Indiana University, the Jets are keen on making strategic decisions to improve the roster.
While much attention centers on the upcoming draft scheduled for April 23, the Jets have already engaged in offseason trades, notably sending pass rusher Jermaine Johnson to the Tennessee Titans in return for defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat as part of their efforts to reshape the team.
Garrett Wilson Expected to Remain a Core Member of the Jets
Despite the flurry of trade activity, rumors about the Jets trading star wide receiver Garrett Wilson appear unlikely to materialize. Multiple sources, including Tony Pauline of Essentially Sports, indicate that Wilson is not expected to be moved unless an extraordinarily lucrative offer emerges that the team cannot decline.
“With the recent trade of Jermaine Johnson to the Tennessee Titans, there is speculation that more moves are on the way, and the New York Jets may continue to clean house. Trading Johnson comes months after the shocking in-season trades of Ahmad Gardner and Quinnen Williams. There is speculation the Jets could trade Garrett Wilson, but I’m told that’s unlikely to happen unless a massive offer the team can’t refuse is placed in front of Gang Green.” ?Tony Pauline, Essentially Sports
Wilson’s status as a valued player is further reinforced by comments from those close to the franchise. General manager Darren Mougey, who led the effort to extend Wilson’s contract last season alongside Ahmad Gardner’s, is reported to have a strong commitment to keeping the wide receiver on the roster.
“The Jets, led by general manager Darren Mougey, extended Wilson’s contract prior to last season, as they did with Gardner. But those close to the situation tell me the Jets don’t want to trade Wilson and ‘they love him,’ which was an exact quote.” ?Tony Pauline, Essentially Sports
Wilson’s 2025 season was shortened due to limited appearances, but he still managed to accumulate 36 catches for 395 yards and four touchdowns over seven games, highlighting his potential value moving forward.
Jets Explore Possible Trade Options for Quarterback Justin Fields
Alongside considerations involving Wilson, the Jets are reportedly open to trading quarterback Justin Fields. NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, during a discussion with Jets reporter Eric Allen at the NFL scouting combine, revealed that New York is assessing multiple scenarios surrounding Fields’ future.
“I assume they will look into a possible trade,”
Rapoport stated, adding,
“He’s got some money due to him, I think it’s $10 (million) guaranteed. He is also a good guy, and so keeping him is not the worst thing in the world. Having him compete, be a backup, there are a lot of different options because he is a good person. So I could see all of those on the table.”
This openness to various outcomes suggests the Jets are weighing their options carefully after an underwhelming season, as they evaluate which quarterback will lead the team in 2026. With Fields’ contract obligations and positive personal reputation, management may decide to keep him as a backup or seek trade interest if suitable offers arise.
Implications for the Jets’ Roster as 2026 Approaches
The future of the Jets’ offense appears to revolve heavily around Garrett Wilson’s retained presence, underscoring his value to the franchise’s rebuilding plans. While the recent deals involving defensive players signal a broader roster overhaul, preserving Wilson suggests a focus on maintaining key playmakers rather than a full teardown.
At the same time, the potential departure of Justin Fields would mark a significant change at the quarterback position, indicating that the Jets might pursue alternative solutions through the draft or trades. As the NFL offseason progresses, fans and analysts will closely follow how the Jets balance their investments between emerging talent and proven contributors in their quest to improve beyond last season’s struggles.
