Jets just made their stance on a Quinnen Williams trade abundantly clear

The New York Jets are continuing to field calls from interested teams ahead of next week’s trade deadline. With multiple players on expiring contracts and an 0-7 record hanging over the franchise, the expectation is that the Jets will be active participants in the trade market over the coming days.

One player whose name has come up in recent trade rumors is star defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. Unlike some of the other players who have found themselves in trade talks, Williams is under contract in 2026 and remains a cornerstone of the organization.

That’s why many have doubted the Jets would ever seriously consider trading Williams without receiving a significant haul in return. It seems those doubters might be on to something.

The Athletic's Zack Rosenblatt reported on Saturday that the Jets are "not actively shopping" Williams ahead of the Nov. 4 trade deadline. Teams have reportedly been calling the Jets about the availability of their Pro Bowl defensive lineman, but the Jets are supposedly "not entertaining moving" him at this time.

According to Rosenblatt, "it would take a pretty significant offer for [the Jets] to even have that conversation." Barring any unexpected developments or massive trade offers, it doesn't sound like Williams will be dealt mid-season.

Jets don't seem likely to trade Quinnen Williams this season

It should come as no surprise that teams have been calling the Jets to check in on Williams. The former All-Pro is putting together yet another Pro Bowl season, ranking first among all interior defensive linemen with a stellar 91.2 Pro Football Focus run-defense grade.

Williams has six more run stops (24) than any other interior defensive lineman, leading the position group with 24 tackles, while also adding 17 pressures and two forced fumbles. He's been one of the most disruptive defensive players in the NFL this season, even if the sack numbers don't reflect it.

There are valid reasons to believe that Williams' future in New York is murky, however. While he's under contract through 2027, Williams has just $5 million remaining in guarantees on his current deal. The expectation is that he will be looking for a new contract, possibly as soon as this offseason.

That makes him a prime trade candidate — especially if he wants out. The Jets’ continued losing, paired with growing speculation that his brother Quincy Williams could be on the way out soon, has many believing Quinnen Williams may eventually request a trade.

Rumors suggest the Jets could be eyeing a return of little more than a second-round pick for Williams, given his contract situation and possible discontent. Williams holds some leverage if he wants to force his way out.

It’s all just speculation for now, but there’s a real chance Williams’ status becomes a bigger talking point in the coming months. That’s an offseason problem. A midseason trade has always seemed unlikely unless another team comes in with a massive offer of at least a first-round pick.

For now, the Jets seem happy to retain arguably their best player. Barring any unexpected developments, don't expect Williams to be traded before next week's deadline.