The 2025 NFL trade deadline proved to be far more dynamic than anticipated, particularly with the New York Jets making headlines through two unexpected trades. On Tuesday, the Jets traded away star cornerback Sauce Gardner and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams in separate deals, significantly boosting their draft capital. The Indianapolis Colts and Dallas Cowboys emerged as the primary beneficiaries of this sudden fire sale. However, did these teams give up too much for these defensive standouts? Let's delve into the details and provide grades for each team involved in these notable trades on deadline day.
Colts Receive: CB Sauce Gardner
Jets Receive: 2026 first-round pick, 2027 first-round pick, wide receiver Adonai Mitchell
This trade was a significant surprise and represents a bold, all-in move for the Colts. Although their first-round picks are likely to be in the bottom 10 over the next two years, acquiring Gardner is a long-term strategy that could greatly impact their playoff aspirations. Coming off a disappointing six-turnover loss, this deal may appear somewhat panicky for Indianapolis, yet it's a solid addition to strengthen their defense as they aim for an extended postseason run.
The Jets' decision to trade Sauce Gardner could very well secure them the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming draft. With two first-round picks and two second-round picks in 2026, along with three first-round picks in 2027, the Jets have positioned themselves well for the future. The question now is whether head coach Aaron Glenn can utilize these assets effectively to develop future stars on the field.
Jets Grade: B+
Colts Grade: B
Cowboys Receive: DT Quinnen Williams
Jets Receive: 2026 second-round pick, 2027 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith
In a perplexing move, the Cowboys have opted to trade for Quinnen Williams despite their current record of 3-5-1 and a mere 4% chance of making the playoffs, according to The Athletic's playoff simulator. This move, along with the prior acquisition of Micah Parsons, indicates a strategy to stock up on older, more expensive defensive tackles rather than investing in a younger, elite edge rusher. While Williams adds depth to their defensive line, it remains questionable whether this trade will significantly improve their chances of making the playoffs.
For the Jets, parting with a player who was once a cornerstone of a top-10 defense might seem like a setback. However, they have amassed a substantial war chest of draft assets over the next two years, providing them with ample opportunities to rebuild.
Jets Grade: A-
Cowboys Grade: C-
Seahawks Receive: WR Rashid Shaheed
Saints Receive: 2026 fourth-round pick, 2026 fifth-round pick
The Seattle Seahawks made headlines by acquiring wide receiver Rashid Shaheed from the Saints, a move that some consider a bit pricey. However, it could pay off given Shaheed's previous success under Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak in 2024, where he averaged 17.5 yards per catch. Despite a dip to 11.3 yards per reception this season, the Saints are unlikely to retain him, making this trade a strategic reunion. With a bolstered receiving corps, including Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Cooper Kupp, and rookie Tory Horton, Shaheed's addition could enhance Seattle's offense significantly.
Seahawks Grade: B
Saints Grade: B-
Jaguars Receive: WR Jakobi Meyers
Raiders Receive: 2026 fourth-round pick, 2026 sixth-round pick
In need of an offensive spark, the Jacksonville Jaguars traded for wide receiver Jakobi Meyers. With Travis Hunter sidelined due to injury and Brian Thomas Jr. not performing at the level expected, this acquisition aims to provide quarterback Trevor Lawrence with a reliable target. If Meyers can replicate his previous seasons where he achieved eight touchdowns in 2023 or topped 1,000 receiving yards in 2024, this trade will be a boon for the Jaguars. With 13 draft picks available in April, Jacksonville has successfully consolidated their assets.
Jaguars Grade: C+
Raiders Grade: B-
Cowboys Receive: LB Logan Wilson
Bengals Receive: 2026 seventh-round pick
This trade, while minor, could be seen as a low-risk move for the Cowboys. Despite having one of the worst defenses in the NFL, acquiring Wilson—who has been benched by the Bengals—doesn't represent a significant shift. With the return of DeMarvion Overshown on the horizon, this trade may not alter the Cowboys' defensive fortunes substantially. For the Bengals, securing any return for a player not in their plans is a step in the right direction during a lost season.
Bengals Grade: B+
Cowboys Grade: C-
Chargers Receive: OL Trevor Penning
Saints Receive: 2027 sixth-round pick
To address their offensive line needs, the Los Angeles Chargers traded for tackle Trevor Penning from the Saints. With both starting tackles lost to season-ending injuries, this trade provides essential short-term assistance as the Chargers aim for a playoff push. The cost was minimal, making it a prudent move. For the Saints, this trade underscores their strategy to reposition their roster, having invested heavily in the offensive line with recent first-round picks.
Chargers Grade: B
Saints Grade: C+
In conclusion, the 2025 NFL trade deadline showcased a flurry of activity, particularly involving the New York Jets and several other teams looking to reshape their rosters. As these teams prepare for the remainder of the season, the implications of these trades will undoubtedly be felt both on and off the field.
For further insights on NFL trades and player performances, stay tuned to our coverage.