Jermaine Johnson’s future with the Jets just became a lot clearer

Jermaine Johnson made his thoughts on his New York Jets future abundantly clear this week when he took to social media to insist that he has no plans to leave Florham Park anytime soon.

Johnson posted the famous “I’m not leaving” GIF from The Wolf of Wall Street to make his stance clear — he doesn’t want to be traded. It was a not-so-subtle message from the standout edge rusher that he intends to stay put with the Jets, and according to him, the team feels the same way.

ESPN’s Rich Cimini spoke with Johnson after his social media post on Thursday, and the defensive end made it clear that his message wasn’t just wishful thinking. Johnson said he spoke directly with New York Jets management about the trade rumors swirling around his name, and the team provided him with clarity on his situation.

"I'm definitely wanted here and I want to stay here," Johnson told Cimini. "That's been understood." He went on to explain that the Jets provided him with “clarity and communication,” evidently saying enough to convince him that he’s, well, not leaving.

The Jets don't plan to trade Jermaine Johnson...according to Jermaine Johnson

Johnson's name has been the subject of trade rumors over the last couple of weeks. Reports suggest the Jets have made him available in trade talks, with several teams calling about his current status.

The Jets are expected to field calls on a number of players between now and the trade deadline on Nov. 4, with the likes of Breece Hall, Allen Lazard, Michael Carter II, Will McDonald, Quincy Williams, and even Quinnen Williams among those who could be moved.

Most were surprised to see Johnson's name pop up in trade rumors, however. Unlike most of the players above, Johnson isn't on an expiring contract and remains a crucial part of the Jets' defense.

Johnson's return to the lineup in Week 6 completely transformed a defense that had been arguably the worst in the NFL up to that point. In the two games since his return, the Jets haven't allowed more than 13 points.

The former Florida State standout remains their best and likely only true three-down defensive end and is still under contract in 2026 after the Jets picked up his fifth-year option in the offseason.

The Jets likely wouldn't get more than a third or fourth-round pick at best for Johnson, which is why it probably doesn't make sense to entertain offers. Unless the Jets are able to receive a haul for his services — which seems unlikely — they're likely better off holding on to him.

Johnson certainly agrees, as he wants to be part of the solution in Florham Park. And based on what he was told, the Jets seem to view it the same way.