NY Jets GM Joe Douglas willing to make a 'bold trade' this offseason
By Justin Fried
The NY Jets have been dropping hints for a while now that they plan to be a bit more aggressive this offseason. General manager Joe Douglas knows that the honeymoon period is over and that it's time for results on the field.
That's why it should come as no surprise that he's reportedly gearing up for a potential big move on the trade market.
ESPN's Rich Cimini reported on Tuesday that "Douglas appears more willing than ever to make a bold trade," with Cimini speculating that he could be feeling pressured to win.
Douglas is entering his third offseason with the organization, and while his moves in his first two offseasons have done a good job at laying a foundation for future success, the Jets can't afford to continue looking to the future.
Not when they've won six games in two years.
NY Jets GM Joe Douglas is expected to be active in the trade market
We already know that the Jets were one of a few teams actively monitoring the market of Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Calvin Ridley. The Jets even had talks with the Falcons about a potential Ridley trade before his suspension halted negotiations.
It's certainly feasible to believe that they will continue monitoring other players' markets who could be available via a trade. Players such as D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett have popped up in recent trade rumors, although those rumors are based on little more than speculation.
Douglas has a successful trade record when it comes to trades, although almost all of those transactions have dealt with trading away players for assets.
The Jamal Adams, Sam Darnold, and Chris Herndon trades are examples of Douglas cutting loose ends and receiving far above market value in return. All three trades look like absolute steals in hindsight.
However, Douglas has shied away from making any major additions. He's never traded away more than a sixth-round pick for a player despite making 15 players trades during his time with the organization.
That seems likely to change this offseason.
The Jets are well aware that they can't afford another four-win season or another 1-7 start in 2022. They must show marked improvement and indicate that the moves the front office is making to improve the roster can result in wins on the field.
Joe Douglas is feeling the heat. Don't be surprised if he strikes while the iron (and his seat) is hot.