Ahead of Week 4, the New York Jets made an intriguing deal with the Tennessee Titans, acquiring 24-year-old cornerback Jarvis Brownlee Jr. and a 2026 seventh-round pick in exchange for a 2026 sixth-rounder.
The move quickly sparked mixed reactions. Jets fans were intrigued by Brownlee’s potential. In contrast, Titans fans questioned first-year general manager Mike Borgonzi’s decision to part with a young, ascending corner.
Speaking to reporters after the NFL’s trade deadline, Borgonzi explained his rationale for dealing Brownlee, a decision that left Titans fans with even more questions.
“The Jarvis Brownlee trade was controversial around here. You’re evaluating the fit. We don’t have the culture around here right now to help guys develop. We thought some of the habits weren’t conducive to helping Jarvis develop right now,” said the former Kansas City Chiefs assistant general manager.
Borgonzi: Jarvis Brownlee trade was controversial around here. You’re evaluating the fit. We don’t have the culture around here right now to help guys develop. We thought some of the habits weren’t conducive to help Jarvis develop right now.
— Terry McCormick (@terrymc13) November 5, 2025
It’s a pretty strange reason to move on from a young cornerback who was clearly starting to find his footing.
But, as the saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, and Brownlee has been a gem for the Jets so far.
Through four games in green and white, the Louisville product has totaled 19 tackles and two defensive stops, while holding opposing quarterbacks to an 86.6 passer rating when targeted.
Brownlee also delivered one of the biggest plays of the season in Week 8, breaking up a late pass against the Bengals to secure the Jets’ first win of the year.
Sometimes, all a guy needs is an organization that actually believes in him.
And the Jets certainly believe in Brownlee’s future.