Jets trading defensive leader could sadly spell the end for All-Pro star

The hope and excitement surrounding the New York Jets in Week 1 of the 2025 season have quickly vanished as this team crashes back to the familiar reality of occupying the bottom of the NFL standings.

It was always going to take time for the new regime to turn this roster into a true contender, but these early struggles have pushed some fans to call for some accelerated turnover.

Rumors have surfaced about the possibility of the Jets trading veteran linebacker Quincy Williams. With his contract nearing its end, the fan favorite could soon be on the move. It would be an emotional farewell, but it might be a necessary step as the team transitions into a new era.

But the idea of trading the veteran linebacker raises an even tougher question. If New York is willing to move on from Quincy Williams, they might also be open to listening on another defensive cornerstone.

As wild as it sounds, Quinnen Williams could be the next name to hit the trade block in a move that would signal a full-scale rebuild.

The Jets could trade both Quincy Williams and Quinnen Williams

NFL Spin Zone's Sayre Bedinger recently put together a list of players who could be on the move as the trade deadline approaches. He included Quincy Williams, noting that the Jets are likely to sell veterans on expiring contracts if the season continues to go downhill.

"The Jets might have a coveted piece on their roster in starting linebacker Quincy Williams, an outstanding player who is currently on IR and eligible to come back in a few weeks. The Jets' roster situation is such that this team can afford to move on from veterans on expiring contracts, and Williams being a free agent after the season fits the bill."

Sayre Bedinger

As painful as it may be, trading the veteran away could actually make sense in the long term. But if the Jets do move on from the linebacker, other teams will likely come calling about Quinnen Williams in the aftermath.

The former All-Pro, like the rest of New York's defense, has struggled to find his prior form this year. Still, he's dominant enough to be the centerpiece of a defensive line.

Ultimately, it would be a controversial move for the Jets to trade away such a valuable defender. Williams has proven he can be one of the most dominant interior linemen in football when at his best. Players like him are often viewed as essential pieces of any competitive roster.

This is a situation that bears monitoring over the next few weeks. Even if Quinnen Williams isn't traded by the deadline, don't be surprised if this storyline pops up again in the offseason.