The New York Jets picked up their first win on Sunday, but that does not mean the season has been fixed. While vibes are high in the locker room, it is important to keep the focus on the future. The Jets are sitting on several trade pieces that, if handled correctly, could yield massive returns. This sentiment was echoed after the big win.
First-year head coach Aaron Glenn, who has been reluctant to sell up until this point, said this to the media: “When someone calls, you listen, but actions speak louder than words,” insider Rich Cimini shares.
### Quinnen Williams Could Yield a 1st Round Pick
One piece in particular could be a gold mine for the struggling Jets, and that is superstar defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. According to SNY’s sources, the price tag on Williams could be among the highest in the league.
“Williams is undeniably the biggest potential trade piece. A captain, former All-Pro, and three-time Pro Bowler, he remains an elite interior lineman in his prime at 28,” writes NFL insider Connor Hughes.
The biggest hurdle for any trade piece at the NFL deadline is always their current contract. But for suitors interested in Williams, surprisingly enough, his contract is rather trade-friendly.
“Williams signed an extension in 2023 that runs through 2027, but this is the final year with significant guaranteed money,” Hughes continues. “Only $5 million of his $20.75 million base salary is guaranteed for 2026, and there are no guarantees in 2027.”
With this considered, Williams could bring a lofty payout. Whether it be a first-round pick to a premier contender or multiple Day 2 selections, sources say the Jets are sitting on a potential payday.
“The Jets have been unwilling to adjust his contract so far, which makes a trade logical if they don’t plan to do so,” Hughes concludes. “One source believed a contending team might part with a first-round pick for Williams, but most pegged his value lower because of the need to restructure his deal. The consensus among sources was a second-round pick plus a Day 3 selection.”
### Should The Stars Be Sold?
Trading for draft picks is a great idea in theory, but at some point, you have to win games. Trading away your best players for the hope of bringing more in is an endless cycle. However, for a player like Williams, at a position like defensive tackle, the reward far outweighs the risk.
The Jets can’t afford the luxury of an elite nose guard. Look at the Chiefs: they have the quarterback, they’ve got the pieces, and they can afford to hand out $100 million to Chris Jones. The Jets desperately need another threat out wide, their defensive backfield needs help, and they still don’t have a guy to build around calling plays.
With the current state of the roster, moving an All-Pro player who does not play a key position—even as upsetting as it may be—is a winning move.
https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/new-york-jets/quinnen-williams-nfl-trade-dealine-rumor/