Jets Swap Edge Rusher for Nose Tackle, Changing Defense Plans

The Titans’ new head coach has shaken up the roster, swapping Jets edge‑rusher Jermaine Johnson for their own nose tackle, T’Vondre Sweat. This trade sends Johnson back to a familiar coaching environment—he once played under the Titans’ former coach.

Why It Matters

• Johnson’s Journey
  2023: 7½ sacks before an Achilles injury ended his season.
  2024: Returned but posted only three sacks, indicating a dip in performance. At 27, he now reunites with his former coach and defensive line mentor.

• Sweat’s Profile
• Height: 6‑foot‑4, Weight: 366 lb.
• Drafted in the second round of 2024.
• The Titans need a versatile nose tackle to fit multiple front formations.

• Jets’ Perspective
  The Jets require a strong run stopper in the middle. With Sweat’s departure, they can target prospects such as:
• Ohio State’s Arvell Reese
• Texas Tech’s David Bailey
• Miami’s Rueben Bain

Free‑agency options could also fill the gap left by starter Will McDonald.

Financial Impact

• Jets gain $13.4 million in cap space by letting Johnson go.
• Sweat’s contract is modest at $1.6 million for the current year, extending through 2027.

The trade reshapes both teams’ defensive strategies and salary cap landscapes, setting the stage for an intriguing season ahead.