The New York Jets are in another downward spiral, and things could get worse for this team if a Garrett Wilson trade happens. One of the few bright spots of the past few years, Wilson originally joined the team as a first-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft and immediately established himself as one of the league’s better young players. Recording at least 1,000 yards in all three of his seasons, Wilson should be a foundational piece of the Jets offense for whoever is under center next year. However, that might not be the case.
Garrett Wilson and current quarterback Aaron Rodgers do not see eye to eye, and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport recently said that the wide receiver could request a trade if the quarterback returns in 2025. The NFL insider cites an offseason dispute between the two and an overall inability to develop chemistry.
.@RapSheet with the latest on Jets WR Garrett Wilson. pic.twitter.com/ehWEDOEsqt
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) December 29, 2024
Garrett Wilson Could Request Trade If Aaron Rodgers Returns to Jets
Chances are, the Jets will choose Garrett Wilson over Aaron Rodgers. While the four-time MVP is one of the greatest ever to play, he’s well past his prime and is not worth the off-field headaches at this stage in his career. However, if Rodgers returns for one last season with New York, every team in the league should be fighting over Wilson. While several teams should be interested, these four make the most sense.
Possible Destinations
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers have some pieces in place, but Week 17’s blowout loss shows this team still has work to do on both sides of the ball. While the defense should be the primary offseason focus, they could benefit from a Garrett Wilson trade. Bryce Young has shown enough to earn another season under center, and the rookie trio of Xavier Legette, Jalen Coker, and Ja’Tavion Sanders all had their moments throughout the season. Perhaps one or more of these guys can become more consistent with experience, but adding Wilson ensures Young will have at least one legitimate WR1 in the offense.
Los Angeles Chargers
Head coach Jim Harbaugh has done a remarkable job of guiding the Los Angeles Chargers to the playoffs during his first year with the team. However, this organization needs more offensive firepower to become a true contributor. Rookie Ladd McConkey is the real deal, but adding another proven playmaker to this offense could make this team one of the AFC’s elite units. Justin Herbert is a top-five quarterback, and soon he’ll have the weapons and defense to support a deep playoff run.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Russell Wilson is a starting-caliber quarterback, but he can no longer carry a flawed roster alone. Seeing as the Pittsburgh Steelers seem intent on bringing him back, they must find a player like Garrett Wilson to support the offense. Combining the current Jet with homegrown star George Pickens should give Pittsburgh the offensive weaponry required to finally go on a deep playoff run for the first time in almost a decade.
New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints could trade Chris Olave for Garrett Wilson, as the 2022 first-round picks are both frustrated with their current teams. The Saints need more weapons but they don’t have the financial resources to make a splash in free agency. With this in mind, they could trade Olave and a draft pick for a healthier, better Wilson. General Manager Mickey Loomis will not rebuild, and the Saints next coach will need as much help as they can get to make the playoffs.
Main Photo: Corey Perrine – USA Today Sports
