With the 2025 NFL trade deadline in full swing, New York Jets fans were shocked to see general manager Darren Moguey trade away the franchise’s star cornerback Sauce Gardner to the Indianapolis Colts on Tuesday afternoon.

The massive deal that was first reported by NFL insider Ian Rapoport includes two first-round picks, according to multiple reports. With another first-round pick in the organization’s back pocket, the Jets have a prime opportunity to acquire two high-caliber talents in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

In addition to landing multiple first-round picks, the Jets also managed to acquire former 2024 second-round pick AD Mitchell from the deal, who could become an instant-impact player for New York this season.

After an impressive 2023 college campaign at the University of Texas, Mitchell was widely considered to be one of the top playmakers in the 2024 draft class, which was riddled with talent. This forced the wide receiver into the second round, where he was selected by the Colts with the No. 52 pick.

Unfortunately for Mitchell, landing with the Colts put him in a rough spot to truly shine in the NFL. Indianapolis’ roster is filled with multiple well-rounded pass catchers, including Michael Pittman, Alec Pierce, and Josh Downs. Due to receiving minimal playing time, the 23-year-old wideout finished his rookie season with 312 receiving yards on 23 catches in his rookie season.

Now, Mitchell has a chance to prove himself with the Jets, who are in desperate need of pass catchers.

What Mitchell Brings To The Table

At 6-foot-2, 205 lbs., Mitchell possesses the size and frame to become a real on the opposite side of star wide receiver Garrett Wilson. Along with an elite frame, the young receiver also ran a 4.34 40-yard dash at the 2024 NFL Combine, highlighting his impressive quickness off the line of scrimmage.

Looking at the current state of the Jets’ wide receiver core, it’s obvious that veteran Allen Lazard is not the long-term plan for the organization. This could allow New York to see Mitchell’s true potential as a deep threat on the outside.

Outside of his usage in the quick game, Colts’ head coach Shane Steichen would often utilize Mitchell’s speed downfield, with 31 percent of his targets in 2024 coming from passes over 20 yards.

Mitchell may have been pushed down the depth chart in Indianapolis, but now, he could see a dramatic increase in usage for the rest of the 2025 season. His ability to take the top off opposing defenses strengthens New York’s passing game, allowing for offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand to open up the air attack for the future.