NFL Insiders Think Brian Thomas Jr. Trade Would Require 1st Rounder 'And Then Some'

Fantasy football enthusiasts are plenty aware of the downturn in production this season from Jacksonville Jaguars wideout Brian Thomas Jr., but don't expect him to be dealt ahead of Tuesday's deadline.

According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, "The Jaguars are looking for a defensive tackle. They have received lots of interest in Thomas, but no substantial offers. Most around the league believe it would take a first-round pick and then some to land the 2024 Pro Bowler."

The 23-year-old Thomas had a fantastic rookie season in 2024, catching 87 passes for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns. His impact has been more muted in 2025, however, with 27 receptions for 365 yards and a touchdown through seven games.

Some of that could be down to the team running a new scheme under first-year head coach Liam Coen. The first-round selection of two-way star Travis Hunter also gave the team another weapon in the passing game.

But the Jaguars probably will need to lean on Thomas more heavily going forward with Hunter on injured reserve due to a right knee injury that will keep him out of action for at least four games.

"Watching this week's practice... [Thomas] practiced the best I've seen him practice," Coen told reporters this week. "I mean that. Truly believe that. Told him that and really expect him to show up and make some huge plays for us as we go. And [told him], 'Look, you don't have to go and be anybody but the best version of B.T.J. and that's going to be damn good enough.'"

It would have been surprising if the Jaguars traded Thomas even with a healthy Hunter. The pair of young receivers will give Trevor Lawrence a fantastic duo in the passing game for many years to come. But with Hunter out of commission and the 4-3 Jaguars hunting for a playoff berth, it would now be downright shocking if he was dealt, even if questions about his fit in Coen's offense persist.