INDIANAPOLIS — Robert Saleh has reconnected with the Jets as he embarks on his new role as head coach of the Titans. On Thursday, the Titans finalized a trade with Saleh’s former team, acquiring edge rusher Jermaine Johnson from the Jets in exchange for nose tackle T’Vondre Sweat.
Saleh had previously coached the Jets when they drafted Johnson in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite an impressive 2023 season where he recorded 7 ½ sacks, Johnson faced a setback after tearing his Achilles in the second game of the 2024 season, sidelining him for the remainder of that year. Although he returned to play last season, Johnson only managed to tally three sacks. The 27-year-old is now set to reunite with Coach Saleh and defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton in Tennessee.
On the flip side, Sweat, a 6-foot-4, 366-pound defensive tackle, was picked in the second round by the Titans in 2024. His size will bolster Aaron Glenn’s defense as he seeks to implement multiple fronts this season. The Jets had a pressing need for a run-stuffer, prompting the acquisition of Sweat to strengthen their defensive line.
This trade also sets the stage for the Jets to potentially draft an edge rusher with their No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming draft. High-profile prospects like Ohio State’s Arvell Reese, Texas Tech’s David Bailey, and Miami’s Rueben Bain are all being considered as the Jets look to enhance their pass-rushing capabilities. Additionally, the Jets may seek to add depth through free agency, given their current lack of depth at the position, particularly following this trade.
With Johnson entering the last year of his contract, the Jets have effectively saved $13.4 million in salary cap space. Meanwhile, Sweat, who will earn $1.6 million this season, remains under contract through 2027, providing the Jets with stability in their defensive front moving forward. This strategic maneuver enhances both teams’ rosters and leaves plenty of room for further development as the offseason unfolds.