The New York Jets finished off an active trade deadline by making a last-second move for defensive back Ja'Sir Taylor from the Los Angeles Chargers. The Jets sent a 2028 conditional 7th-round pick in exchange for Taylor.

This is nowhere close to the blockbuster deals that New York made earlier in the day. The Jets sent away All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner to the Indianapolis Colts for wide receiver Adonai Mitchell and two first-round picks. They also sent All-Pro defensive tackle Quinnen Williams to the Dallas Cowboys for defensive tackle Mazi Smith, a first-round pick, and a second-round pick.

It's a complete overhaul of their roster as they look to rebuild at 1-7. The trade for Taylor gives the Jets a replacement at cornerback after moving Gardner. Taylor will not replace Gardner in terms of production, but rather be a contributor to their defensive back depth.

Taylor, at 26 years old, has a chance to prove his value with New York. He will play a larger role with the Jets, which is crucial, as he's in the final year of his rookie contract.

If he plays at a high level, he could earn an extension or a contract elsewhere. 

New York's flurry of moves ahead of the deadline added some intriguing young talent and draft capital. Trade acquisitions, Taylor and Jarvis Brownlee Jr, will look to make their impact in the cornerback room.

Smith, the Cowboys' first-round pick in 2023, has yet to make an impact at the NFL level. However, he could have a bigger role with the Jets and has the potential to break out as he will be replacing Williams.

On offense, New York added Adonai Mitchell. Mitchell was a second-round pick by the Colts in 2024 and has shown flashes over his first two seasons.

In his rookie season, Mitchell hauled in 23 receptions for 312 yards and zero touchdowns. In the 2025 season, Mitchell has just nine receptions for 152 yards.

With the Jets, Mitchell will have the opportunity to emerge as the wide receiver two behind Garrett Wilson. 

New York made a number of significant moves at the trade deadline and will now look to develop the young talent they acquired, utilizing their draft capital wisely in the process of their rebuild.