Andrew Buller-Russ
The New York Jets have long been hunting for a complementary wide receiver to play opposite of Garrett Wilson, taking some attention off him in the process. One might argue that now, with the Jets securing a short-term franchise quarterback in Geno Smith, building a more established receiving corps is more important than ever.
The Jets could rely on the 2026 NFL Draft to do so, where they have a total of nine selections across the three-day event. That includes two first-round picks (No. 2 and No. 16). Yet, the Jets could do both draft a young receiver prospect or two, and trade for a proven vet.
Recently, ESPN’s Jets insider Rich Cimini reported that the team may indeed be kicking around the idea of trading for a receiver soon. He even tossed out a couple of names who could get traded to New York.
Cimini’s first suggestion is Brian Thomas Jr. from the Jaguars. Though, it’s not known how ‘available’ the 2024 first-round pick is. Jacksonville may prefer to continue working with the former 1,000-yard receiver who’s still just 23.
Another name Cimini tossed out as a trade possibility for the Jets is Dontayvion Wicks from the Packers. The 24-year-old former fifth-round pick feels like a much more likely trade target for the Jets to consider.
“The Jets likely will use at least one of their four draft picks in the top 44 on a receiver, but don’t be surprised if they add another veteran to the mix at some point. There have been rumblings about a potential trade, with Dontayvion Wicks and Brian Thomas Jr. among the names bandied about.”
ESPN’s Rich Cimini on Jets WR trade targets
Wicks would also obviously cost much less in a trade, as unlike Thomas, he’s never made a Pro Bowl team. Wicks’ best season thus far actually came as a rookie when he recorded 581 yards and four touchdowns.
He’s coming off a season in which he recorded 30 receptions for 332 yards and two touchdowns. With Wicks’ production dwindling with each season he’s played in Green Bay and also headed into the final year of his contract, the Packers are likely more than willing to listen to trade offers, and the Jets could present a good fit.
Related: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: End of March Edition
