Jets fans will love beating out hated rival in Jarvis Brownlee trade sweepstakes

The New York Jets have decided to bring in a brand new player after a somewhat disappointing 0-3 start to the 2025 season, acquiring cornerback Jarvis Brownlee Jr. from the Tennessee Titans in exchange for a late-round pick swap. While he is currently injured, the Jets were heralded for this trade.

Brownlee emerged as a starter for the Titans during his rookie season, and many fans believed that his shortcomings were in no way warranting a trade away for pennies on the dollar. What makes this move even sweeter is the fact that the Jets won out over a division rival in the Brownlee sweepstakes.

Former Titans head coach Mike Vrabel and the New England Patriots, who have seen their secondary underperform without standout cornerback Christian Gonzalez, tried to trade for Brownlee when it became clear that Tennessee was moving off him, but the Jets got a deal done first.

Brownlee isn't going to change the defense overnight, especially as he recovers from an injury, but it's always quite nice for the Jets to get one over on their division rivals. Brownlee could make this trade sting even more for New England if he dominates on the field.

Jets beat out Patriots in trade for Jarvis Brownlee Jr.

Brownlee's problems relate to his penchant for penalties (12 in 19 professional games) and his unwillingness to change his style of play. However, a former undersized corner who played bigger than he was in coach Aaron Glenn may have seen a kindred spirit in Brownlee.

Despite his size, Brownlee has primarily played as an outside cornerback in Tennessee. The former Louisville product had emerged as one of the best run defenders and open-field tacklers in the AFC. On a Jets team that has struggled with tackling this season, Brownlee will be a welcome addition.

It remains to be seen how the Jets will deploy Brownlee. Are they going to keep him on the outside, which could provide a challenge for underperforming veteran Brandon Stephens and rookie third-rounder Azareye'h Thomas? If the 5-10, 190-pound player moves to the slot, what becomes of Michael Carter II?

Regardless, the fact that the Jets acquired a player Tennessee fans were livid about letting go while beating their hated rivals up north to the punch makes this move even sweeter for Darren Mougey. All Brownlee has to do is prove that he can be a playmaker in Steve Wilks' scheme.

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