What's happened
The New York Jets traded edge rusher Carl Johnson to the Tennessee Titans, reuniting him with coach Robert Saleh. Johnson, a Pro Bowler in 2023, expressed gratitude to the Jets and excitement for the next chapter. The deal, pending league approval, involves the Jets receiving nose tackle T’Vondre Sweat.
What's behind the headline?
This trade underscores the strategic shift in both teams' rosters. The Jets aim to bolster their interior line with Sweat, while the Titans seek to strengthen their pass rush with Johnson’s proven talent. Johnson’s heartfelt farewell highlights his positive experience in New York, but his injury history and the team's roster needs likely influenced the move. Saleh’s familiarity with Johnson suggests the Titans see him as a key piece for their defensive plans. The deal’s pending approval indicates both teams are preparing for a busy offseason, with roster flexibility and cap management at the forefront. This trade will likely impact the Titans' defensive line immediately, while the Jets will focus on integrating Sweat into their scheme.
What the papers say
The story is primarily reported by AP News and NY Post, with details from NFL insiders. The NY Post highlights Hannah Brooke’s emotional Instagram post and Johnson’s gratitude, emphasizing the personal side of the trade. AP News provides context on the deal’s mechanics and the strategic implications for both teams, noting the deal cannot be finalized until March 11. The contrasting perspectives reflect the trade’s significance for team rebuilding and player careers, with the NY Post focusing on Johnson’s personal farewell and AP emphasizing the tactical considerations.
How we got here
Johnson was drafted by the Jets in 2022 and became a key player, earning a Pro Bowl in his second season. His 2024 season was impacted by an Achilles injury, reducing his sack total. Saleh, his former coach, now leads the Titans, making this reunion notable. The trade reflects ongoing roster adjustments ahead of the new league year.
Go deeper
- What does this trade mean for the Jets' defensive line?
- How will Johnson perform with the Titans compared to his time in New York?
- What other roster moves are expected before the league year begins?
More on these topics
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Robert Saleh is an American football coach who is the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. He previously has served as an assistant coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Seattle Seahawks and Houston Texans.
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The New York Jets are a professional American football team based in the New York metropolitan area. The Jets compete in the National Football League as a member club of the league's American Football Conference East division.
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The Tennessee Titans are a professional American football team based in Nashville, Tennessee. The Titans compete in the National Football League as a member club of the American Football Conference South division.