The search for another weapon in the New York Jets passing game continues, but fans hoping for a massive, league-altering splash might want to temper their expectations.
While the rumor mill has been spinning at full speed, one of the most prominent voices in the Jets beat has officially poured cold water on the biggest name linked to the team.
ESPN’s Rich Cimini, speaking on “Jets Collective,” addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding Philadelphia Eagles superstar AJ Brown.
Despite the tantalizing idea of pairing Brown with Garrett Wilson, Cimini was blunt about the reality of the situation: it is simply not happening.
Why the AJ Brown Trade is a No-Go
The idea of Brown coming to New York gained steam due to reported friction in Philadelphia and the Jets’ desperate need for a proven number two receiver.
However, the logistics make such a move nearly impossible. Brown recently signed a three year, $96 million extension, and the Eagles’ asking price is reportedly astronomical.
Starting the bidding at a first and a second-round pick is a steep price for any team, but especially for a New York Jets front office that needs to preserve draft capital to fill multiple holes.
General Manager Darren Mougey is looking to build a sustainable roster, and offloading that much value for one player — no matter how talented — does not seem to be in the cards.
Looking at “Lower-Level” Trade Targets
Just because the door is closed on AJ Brown does not mean the Jets are standing pat.
Cimini noted that he fully expects a wide receiver trade to be a “possibility” as we approach draft weekend, though it will likely be for a “lower-level” player rather than a perennial Pro Bowler.
Two names that have surfaced as more realistic options are Brian Thomas Jr. and Dontayvion Wicks.
Thomas, a former first-round pick for the Jaguars, would be an ideal fit, though Jacksonville has publicly stated they have no plans to move him.
Wicks, currently with the Green Bay Packers, represents a more attainable depth piece who could provide a reliable target for the offense without breaking the bank.
The State of the Jets Receiving Room
The urgency to add a body to the room is real. Currently, the New York Jets are heavily reliant on Garrett Wilson. While Adonai Mitchell offers significant upside, the depth behind them is dangerously thin.
The team saw firsthand last year how quickly a season can derail when the passing offense lacks secondary options.
By targeting a mid-tier veteran or a rising young player via trade, the Jets hope to insulate themselves against injury and provide enough variety to keep opposing defenses from doubling Wilson on every snap.
What to Expect on Draft Weekend
As the NFL Draft nears, expect the New York Jets to be active in conversations. While the “blockbuster” dream of AJ Brown is dead, the goal remains the same: find a way to make this offense more explosive for the 2026 season.
Whether it is a draft-day trade for a player like Wicks or a strategic move for a veteran currently buried on a depth chart elsewhere, the Jets are clearly not done tinkering with their roster.
It might not be the $96 million headline fans wanted, but it might be the sensible building block the team actually needs.
