Jets Swap Edge Rusher for Nose Tackle, Changing Defense Plans

The Titans’ new head coach decided to shake up his roster by trading the Jets’ edge rusher Jermaine Johnson for their own nose tackle, T’Vondre Sweat. This move brings Johnson back into a familiar coaching environment, as he had previously played under the Titans’ former coach. Johnson’s 2023 season was promising, racking up seven and a half sacks before an Achilles injury cut his play short in the 2024 season. He returned last year but recorded only three sacks, showing a dip in performance. At 27, he now reunites with his former coach and defensive line mentor.Sweat, a hefty 6‑foot‑4, 366‑pound player drafted in the second round of 2024, was brought into the Titans to strengthen their interior defense. The team’s new defensive play‑caller wants a versatile nose tackle who can fit into multiple front formations. The Jets, meanwhile, felt the need for a strong run stopper in the middle of their line. With this trade, the Jets’ prospects at edge rusher become clearer. Their high draft pick may go to a player like Ohio State’s Arvell Reese, Texas Tech’s David Bailey, or Miami’s Rueben Bain. Additionally, free‑agency options could fill the remaining gap after losing a starter like Will McDonald. Financially, the Jets gain $13. 4 million in cap space by letting Johnson go, while Sweat’s contract is modest at $1. 6 million for the current year and extends through 2027.