As the 2025 trade deadline draws closer, teams around the league must determine whether their roster needs just one more piece to contend for a title — or whether it’s time to sell and stockpile draft capital.

Given where things stand for the New York Jets, it’s clear they fall into the latter category. At 0-6 and with several players on expiring contracts, Gang Green appears closer to a full fire sale in November than to acquiring talent.

Running back Breece Hall and linebacker Quincy Williams are obvious trade candidates. Both are set to hit free agency following the 2025 campaign.

However, a surprise retirement from one of the league’s top contenders may have opened the door for another key Jet to be on the move.

Za’Darius Smith retires

Former Pro Bowl edge rusher Za’Darius Smith announced his retirement Monday afternoon from the Philadelphia Eagles.

The defending champions need help at defensive end. No active player on their roster has more than one sack, and Nolan Smith remains on injured reserve. Philadelphia has long been known for its aggressive front office, always willing to make a move — even when it’s unexpected.

Smith’s retirement adds more urgency. Could that lead them to call the Jets?

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The Eagles have the draft capital to make a deal. Would they pursue a young player like Will McDonald or Jermaine Johnson? Or would they aim for bigger names such as Bradley Chubb in Miami or Trey Hendrickson in Cincinnati?

If a deal is to be made with New York, McDonald is likely off the table. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio prioritizes edge defenders who can stop the run as well as pressure the quarterback.

That leaves Johnson as a more realistic target.

Would the Jets trade Jermaine Johnson?

Johnson had his fifth-year option picked up by the Jets this past offseason, meaning he remains under team control through the 2026 season if not traded.

That could raise his trade value. A young edge rusher with term left on his deal would command more in return than a player on an expiring contract.

It’s why some believe the former first-round pick — who has 11 career sacks — could be on the move.

But it’s far from a sure thing.

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Johnson is one year removed from suffering a torn Achilles. While he played well last week against the Denver Broncos, including his first sack of the season, some teams might hesitate to trade for a player with a history of major injury.

The Jets’ decision to exercise his fifth-year option, combined with their praise for him throughout the season, suggests they’re not eager to move him. Johnson is still just 26 and, when healthy, is a solid starter on a rebuilding defense.

He’s the type of player a team in transition may want to build around — not ship out. Even for a bold front office like Philadelphia’s.