NY Jets exploring a trade for a pass rusher, per Adam Schefter

The NY Jets' defense is going to feel the loss of star defensive end Carl Lawson in a big way. There's really no way to replace a player of his talent.

However, the Jets are evidently exploring their options.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on Sunday that the Jets were exploring the possibility of a trade for a pass rusher before the season starts with Lawson out for the year.

With a few weeks to go before the start of the regular season, the Jets have a few options they could consider. And the fact that they're looking to acquire a pass rusher isn't surprising, despite what head coach Robert Saleh says.

The Carl Lawson injury has forced the NY Jets' hands

Lawson signed with the Jets this past March to a hefty three-year, $45 million contract. Unfortunately, after dominating this summer, the 26-year-old tore his Achilles during last Thursday's practice.

But while Lawson's injury is certainly the most high-profile, the Jets are also dealing with a few other ailments at the position.

Vinny Curry and Kyle Phillips have been sidelined for the entire summer and it's unclear if either will be ready to go by Week 1. Curry seems likely to miss at least the first game or two of the season.

2020 third-round pick Jabari Zuniga has also battled injuries and Ronnie Blair, a favorite of Saleh, injured his hamstring in Saturday's game.

The Jets are running out of players to throw out there. As much as a trade to acquire a pass rusher would be about replacing Lawson, it would also be just as much about mitigating the losses of other players on that defensive line.

Of course, the most notable name that is rumored to be available is Arizona Cardinals star Chandler Jones. Jones requested a trade earlier this offseason, but such a deal would likely require giving up significant draft capital.

The Jets have the picks to spare, but how much would general manager Joe Douglas be willing to give up for a 31-year-old on the final year of his contract?

Whatever direction the Jets take, it seems as though they're actively in the market to acquire a pass rusher. Don't be surprised if a trade happens before the team's next preseason game.