Jermaine Johnson Trade to Eagles: Could Jets Edge Rusher Revive Career in Philadelphia?
Eagles Explore Trade for Jets Edge Rusher Jermaine Johnson
The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly considering a trade for New York Jets edge rusher Jermaine Johnson, a former first-round pick whose career has stalled since showing promise in his second season. The potential move comes as the Eagles evaluate options to bolster their pass rush, particularly with uncertainty surrounding future roster turnover at the position.
Johnson, selected 26th overall by the Jets in the 2022 NFL Draft, initially displayed potential, recording 55 tackles, 7.5 sacks, seven pass breakups, an interception, a forced fumble, and a recovery in 2023. However, consistency and health have been ongoing concerns. The Jets, who have developed a reputation for hindering the careers of promising players, may be willing to part with Johnson if the right offer materializes.
According to a recent report by Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox, Johnson landed fourth on a trade block big board, with the Eagles and Tennessee Titans identified as logical landing spots. The reasoning centers on Philadelphia’s need for edge depth and general manager Howie Roseman’s history of acquiring players with upside at a reasonable cost.
The Eagles currently have Brandon Graham, Jaelan Phillips, Jalyx Hunt, Nolan Smith, Josh Uche, and Jose Ramirez at the edge rusher position. Hunt, Smith, and Ramirez are the only players currently under contract beyond the upcoming season, creating a potential need for reinforcements.
Eagles Wire editor-in-chief Glenn Erby noted that Johnson’s contract situation could make him an attractive trade target. He is currently playing on his fifth-year option, which carries a cap hit of just $13.6 million for the 2026 season – a relatively low figure for a player with his initial draft pedigree.
“If the Jets use the second overall pick on an edge defender like Arvell Reese or David Bailey, Johnson — a 2027 free agent — could become expendable as Aaron Glenn looks for instant production at that position,” Erby wrote.
The Jets are reportedly seeking a second-round draft pick in exchange for Johnson, according to Dianna Russini of The Athletic. Philadelphia’s prior experience with acquiring players from the Jets – notably Mekhi Becton – suggests they may be willing to explore a deal, particularly given the potential for Johnson to regain his form in a new environment.
The appeal of acquiring Johnson isn’t necessarily about the player he *was* expected to be in 2022, but rather the player he *could* become within a well-structured system and with effective coaching. Philadelphia has a track record of providing second chances to players who haven’t reached their full potential elsewhere, and Johnson could be the latest example.
As the NFL offseason progresses, the possibility of a trade between the Eagles and Jets remains a developing storyline. Whether Roseman will ultimately decide to pursue Johnson will depend on a variety of factors, including the asking price, the availability of other options, and his assessment of Johnson’s potential for future growth.