Jets Urged to Acquire Jaguars WR in Trade

Analysts say Brian Thomas Jr. could be on the move after disappointing Year 2 performance.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:13pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in motion, with sharp planes of green, blue, and orange overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract representation of athletic prowess.A cubist interpretation of a wide receiver's explosive movements on the football field, hinting at the potential trade value of young talent.Today in Jacksonville

The New York Jets have been urged by an NFL executive to pursue a trade for Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. Thomas was the Jaguars' first-round draft pick in 2024 and had a strong rookie season, but his production dipped in 2025. The executive believes the 23-year-old wideout could be traded on draft day, especially if other top receivers are off the board.

Why it matters

The Jets are looking to bolster their receiving corps to support young quarterback Zach Wilson. Adding a talented but underperforming player like Thomas could be a low-risk, high-reward move that pays dividends if the team can get him back on track.

The details

Brian Thomas Jr. signed a four-year, $14.6 million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2024 after being drafted 23rd overall. In his first two NFL seasons, he amassed 135 receptions for 1,989 yards and 12 touchdowns. However, his production took a step back in 2025, leading an NFL executive to believe the Jaguars could look to move him on draft day.

  • Thomas was drafted by the Jaguars in the first round in 2024.
  • In his rookie season in 2024, Thomas had 135 receptions for 1,989 yards and 12 touchdowns.
  • Thomas' production dipped in 2025, leading to speculation he could be traded.

The players

Brian Thomas Jr.

A 23-year-old wide receiver who was the Jacksonville Jaguars' first-round draft pick in 2024. He had a strong rookie season but saw his production decline in 2025.

New York Jets

An NFL team that is looking to bolster its receiving corps to support young quarterback Zach Wilson.

Jacksonville Jaguars

The NFL team that drafted Brian Thomas Jr. in the first round in 2024 and may now be looking to trade him.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The Jets could potentially acquire a talented young receiver in Brian Thomas Jr. at a discounted price if the Jaguars decide to move on from him after a disappointing 2025 season. This could be a low-risk, high-reward move that helps the Jets improve their receiving corps and support their young quarterback.