ClutchPoints
The New York Jets have struggled with two substantial areas of need all offseason. While a team that missed the playoffs for the 14th straight year, finished 5-12 and fired its general manager and coaching staff clearly has more than just two holes to fill, the Jets desperately need to improve the interior of their defensive line and add a legitimate WR2 to play opposite Garrett Wilson.
In a surprisingly encouraging proactive display, the team addressed one of those glaring issues this week. The Jets completed two unexpected preseason trades within hours of each other on Wednesday. New York added defensive tackle Jowon Briggs from the Browns in exchange for a sixth-round draft pick in 2026. Then, the team doubled down on the position, landing Harrison Phillips and a 2027 seventh-round pick from the Vikings for sixth-round selections in 2026 and 2027.
The Jets’ porous line was an obvious weak point as the team ranked 17th against the run last season. Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey didn’t solve the problem with the preseason trades but they did at least address it. And Phillips in particular is an intriguing addition. The 6’3”, 307-pound former third-round pick is a strong run defender who will likely start next to Quinnen Williams at left tackle.
The Jets’ new regime demonstrated a willingness to upgrade areas of need via trade. So what about New York’s other glaring weakness? The Jets’ wide receiver room inspires little confidence beyond Wilson. Josh Reynolds and Allen Lazard are duking it out for WR2 duties when in reality both veteran wideouts are better suited to WR3/4 roles.
The rest of New York’s depth chart is even bleaker. Former third-round pick Malachi Corley is best known for a gaffe in his rookie season. Arian Smith was a fourth-round flier in 2025 with trackstar speed but questionable hands. And Xavier Gipson is a return specialist.
New York needs to add a pass catcher. And two-time Pro Bowl wideout Terry McLaurin could be available for the right price.
McLaurin is entering the final year of the extension he signed with the Washington Commanders in 2022 and he wants a new contract. Despite having Super Bowl aspirations after reaching the NFC Championship game last season and a startling lack of depth at the position, the Commanders have yet to re-sign McLaurin.
The two sides don’t seem particularly close to striking a deal either. And the situation in Washington is turning acrimonious. McLaurin has complained about the contract dispute to the media. He’s holding out while awaiting a new extension and missed training camp and the preseason. And, fed up with the lack of progress, McLaurin requested a trade.
McLaurin is one of the most talented and consistent receivers in the NFL. He debuted with Washington in 2019 and caught 58 passes for 919 yards and seven touchdowns. That was the last season he failed to top 1,000...
