The New York Jets are in dire need of upgrades in their receiving corps, and general manager Joe Douglas has a range of options at his disposal, including the trade block, open market, and NFL Draft. While star receiver Garrett Wilson possesses immense talent, he has been hindered by subpar quarterback play and a lackluster supporting cast, resulting in him falling short of his full potential. The anticipated improvement in quarterback performance, particularly with Aaron Rodgers’ potential positive regression, is crucial for the team’s offensive success. However, without upgrades to the team’s second- and third-most targeted receivers, there is a significant risk of stagnation. As a result, the Jets should consider pursuing established veterans to bolster their receiving corps. Nevertheless, the pool of available free agent pass-catchers is shrinking, and trades have already taken place, limiting the Jets’ options.
On Saturday, the Denver Broncos made a trade, sending receiver Jerry Jeudy to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for fifth- and sixth-round picks in the 2024 draft. The price paid for Jeudy, a former first-round pick known for his separation ability, was relatively low. While he has faced challenges with inconsistent quarterback play and struggles at contested catches, Jeudy has shown potential as a complementary option alongside veteran receiver Amari Cooper.
In the 2022 season, Jeudy recorded 67 receptions for 972 yards and six touchdowns, but his production declined to a 54/758/2 stat line during Denver’s disappointing 2023 campaign. So far, Jeudy has not achieved a 1,000-yard season in the NFL.
According to Jeremy Fowler, both the New York Jets and the New England Patriots had expressed interest in acquiring Jeudy as trade discussions intensified.
For the Jets, this trade has a dual significance. Firstly, it means that another receiver option has been taken off the market. The Jets had the opportunity to offer a similar package for Jeudy but ultimately chose not to. This decision could provide insight into their priorities at the position.
While the Jets’ own receiver, Denzel Mims, is considered a better player than Jeudy, they possess fairly similar playing styles as finesse receivers who rely on their athleticism before and after the catch. However, Wilson’s superior play strength sets him apart, and having two receivers of that archetype may not mesh well, especially if a receiver with exceptional catch-point skills is not on the field.
It’s possible that Allen Lazard, a receiver acquired by the Jets through the Aaron Rodgers trade, could rebound and provide the bigger-bodied presence they need. If not, the Jets will be in the market for a receiver whom Rodgers can trust to win contested catches and make tough plays over the middle of the field.
Broncos receiver Courtland Sutton has emerged as a topic of discussion in relation to the New York Jets. He has become a popular trade target in recent weeks.
Sutton seems like a better fit for the Jets compared to Jeudy, and he has a more established history of productivity. However, his contract carries a higher price tag, with an average annual value of $15 million.
While the Broncos have shown a willingness to make trades, moving Sutton and his contract could prove challenging. If a trade does occur, it is likely that the price would be similar to what the Broncos received for Jeudy. In this case, the Jets could be among the interested teams vying for Sutton’s services.
