'Don't Sleep' on Jets Trading for WR amid Brian Thomas Jr., Quentin Johnston Rumors, Says Insider

The New York Jets have made some strong additions in free agency this offseason, but they could still use a extra veteran presence in their receiving corps.

However, it sounds like Jets general manager Darren Mougey is already gearing up to address the biggest hole on the roster, as ESPN's Rich Cimini reported that the team will likely look to the trade market to add a wideout.

"Don't sleep on the possibility of Mougey trading for a veteran," Cimini stated. "It's already been an active offseason for wide receiver trades, and you're talking about a GM who has made 12 player trades in a little over a year. Brian Thomas Jr. (Jacksonville Jaguars), Rashod Bateman (Baltimore Ravens), Quentin Johnston (Los Angeles Chargers) and Dontayvion Wicks (Green Bay Packers) have been mentioned as trade possibilities."

Connor Hughes of SNY reported earlier this month that the Jaguars were "entertaining offers" for Thomas and noted that the Jets previously pursued him at last season's trade deadline. ESPN's Kris Rhim noted last week that the Chargers have a "logjam at receiver," making Johnston a likely trade candidate this offseason.

Mougey hasn't been hesitant to pull the trigger on trades, as he most notably shipped away star cornerback Sauce Gardner and star defensive tackle Quinnen Williams at the 2025 trade deadline to acquire significant draft assets. This offseason, he acquired star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick from the Miami Dolphins, stalwart defensive tackle T'Vondre Sweat from the Tennessee Titans and veteran quarterback Geno Smith from the Las Vegas Raiders.

While New York's defense has drastically improved on paper following Mougey's offseason haul, the offense could still use some improvements to make life easier for Smith when he takes over as the starting quarterback for the 2026 season. The Jets lack depth behind star receiver Garrett Wilson, so they could address that by trading for a veteran and also selecting a wideout in the 2026 NFL draft next month.

If Mougey can pull it off, Jets fans will surely rejoice over the possibility of having a competent offense next season.