The NFL season is about halfway through, and with that comes the trade deadline. Depending on the fanbase, it’s either a heartbreaking or exceptionally joyous time. Across the league, massive changes have occurred, and the future holds a thrilling end to the season.
The New York Jets were among the most active teams in this year’s deadline, trading away two of their superstar defenders, Captain Quennin Williams and fourth year cornerback Sauce Gardner. Gardner himself was the biggest trade of the year, as he has been a staple of the Jets defense since he was drafted in 2022. The Jets received two first round picks from the Indianapolis Colts, a 2026 and a 2027, with an additional gain of Wide Receiver Adaoni Mitchell. The Colts showed an aggressive “win now” strategy, as they seem to be looking for a deep playoff run as they sit atop the AFC with an 8-2 record.
About an hour after his teammate was shipped off, Quinnen Williams himself was told some groundbreaking news: he was headed to Dallas. The three time Pro Bowler has been a standout for New York’s defense and won team MVP in 2022. The Jets gained a second 2027 first round pick, a 2026 second round pick, and DT Mazi Smith from the Cowboys.
However, the Jets are not the only ones making noise. The Eagles are coming off a Super Bowl winning year, and hope to start a streak. The team’s first move was to acquire a solid defensive back in Jiare Alexander from Baltimore. While Alexander has had a fair share of injuries, when he is healthy, the defense tacks on a strong addition. Philly’s secondary is already a scary one, and this addition is a good one. They also gained a 2027 seventh round pick while the Ravens received a 2026 sixth rounder.
In addition to Alexander, the Eagles also obtained a strong edge rusher from Miami, Jaelen Philips. A much needed help to the defense, Philadelphia snagged Philips from the Dolphins for a third round pick in 2026. He will be a good addition to the defense line, which needed an elusive player like him.
In conclusion, no one can predict what might happen at the trade deadline. However, that only makes it more entertaining to watch unfold. All that’s left to see is how all of these changes unravel in the future, that is when the true winners and losers can be found.
