In one of the biggest NFL trade developments at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, the New York Jets have agreed to send star defensive end Jermaine Johnson to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
The deal cannot be officially processed until the new league year begins on March 11, but it marks a bold, immediate reshaping of both teams’ defensive fronts.
Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell before the NFC wild card game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Minnesota Vikings at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell before the NFC wild card game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Minnesota Vikings at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
NFL Trade Shocker: New York Jets Send Pro Bowler Jermaine Johnson to Tennessee Titans for DT T’Vondre Sweat in Massive Defensive Swap
Johnson, the No. 26 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Florida State, had been a cornerstone of the Jets’ pass rush and a vocal leader in the locker room. After New York moved on from stars like Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams before the 2025 deadline, Johnson expressed heartbreak but pledged his loyalty in a powerful social media post:
“I’d be lying if I said I was happy my brothers are gone because I’m not, I’m sick. But, I believe strongly in the organization, staff and my other brothers in the locker room. I said when I got drafted I wanted to be the reason or part of the reason this thing gets changed for the better and that’s going to continue to be my outlook.
I love this team and this fan base and y’all will continue to get my all, my absolute best on and off the field. Let’s look onward and upward because better things are coming and I give my word on that. Go Jets always.”
Just months later, Johnson learned he would be the one changing teams. The trade brings T’Vondre Sweat — a powerful, first-round interior disruptor from Texas — to New York, giving the Jets a new anchor to help stabilize the defensive line and address run defense weaknesses from 2025.
Why the Jets Are Moving Jermaine Johnson
Sep 9, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; New York Jets linebacker Jermaine Johnson (11) waits for play to resume during the fourth quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
Sep 9, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; New York Jets linebacker Jermaine Johnson (11) waits for play to resume during the fourth quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
Johnson was frequently mentioned in trade rumors before the 2025 deadline but was retained after other high-profile departures.
The Jets’ defense struggled for consistency in 2025, and GM Darren Mougey appears to be prioritizing interior strength, cap flexibility, and roster reset.
Sweat’s run-stopping ability and power could immediately upgrade the middle while Johnson’s departure opens salary cap space and a roster spot.
Impact on Both Teams in the NFL
New York Jets: Gain a young, high-upside DT to complement their front seven. Sweat addresses a glaring run-defense issue and pairs well with remaining pieces.
Tennessee Titans: Add a proven edge rusher with Pro Bowl potential to boost their pass rush alongside existing talent.
The trade cannot be finalized until March 11, but it has already generated massive buzz at the NFL Combine. Jets fans are split — some see it as a smart reset for a struggling defense, while others lament losing a homegrown talent who publicly pledged loyalty just months earlier.
This defensive swap could be one of the biggest NFL trades of the 2026 offseason. What do you think — win for New York, or a mistake to move Johnson? Drop your take below!
Related Reading:
“They’re Done With Him” NFL GM Trashes Own Quarterback, Makes It Clear They’re Looking For Someone New
“This Is Huge” Travis Kelce Sees Massive Job Opportunity With Higher Pay Opportunity Present Itself (Report)
“This Is Real” Packers Suddenly Linked To 12x Pro Bowler, Would Change 2026 Immediately
“He Can Look” Bears Put Star Player On Trade Block, Fans Stunned By Decision (Report)
“I’m Coming Back” Lions See 140-Game Star Forgo Retirement, Announce Return For 2026
“The Rooney Rule Is Strange” NFL GM Openly Criticizes Rule That Helps Black Coaches (Watch)
For More Football Content:
To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in the world of Football – especially with all the trade rumors swirling around and free agency news – College Football, and more, click here.
To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in the world of Football – especially with all the trade rumors swirling around and free agency news – College Football, and more, click here.
To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in the world of Football – especially with all the trade rumors swirling around and free agency news – College Football, and more, click here.