Proposed Jets Brian Thomas Jr. trade might be too high of a price for Darren Mougey

While the New York Jets are widely expected to use one of their top picks in the 2026 NFL Draft to select a star wide receiver next to Garrett Wilson, the idea of trading capital for a proven player is very appealing. Of the trade targets on the market, Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. is the biggest name on the market.

Thomas might take quite the offer to pry away from the Jaguars, as illustrated by one package that might be just a tad more favorable to Jacksonville than it would be to the Jets after his down season in 2025.

Over at Black and Teal, FanSided's site for all things Jacksonville Jaguars, Carlos Sanchez believes the Jets might be willing to surrender a first-round pick to acquire Thomas. They would be getting a third-round pick at No. 100 overall back in addition to Thomas, giving them two selections in a five-pick span.

While Thomas would be an awesome addition to the wide receiver room, the Jets might find it tough to part with a package that involves a first-round pick unless they get some premium capital back from the Jags in return. This trade might be a bridge too far for Darren Mougey.

Grade the trade proposal: Jets try to acquire Brian Thomas Jr. from Jaguars

There are two big flaws that prevent this trade from evolving into win-win territory. First, giving up No. 16 is going to be a very tall order. Even though Thomas had a phenomenal rookie season, his down year in 2026 might create some doubt as to his overall ability to replicate

Second, unless the Jaguars consider parting with either their second-round pick or their top third-rounder at No. 82 overall, the Jets should hang up the phone.

However, the Jets would be adding someone who would immediately become the best WR2 the Jets have had since Eric Decker (2024 second half notwithstanding), with room to grow. That price is not going to be very affordable, especially coming from a Jaguars team that isn't forced into trading him.

The Jets should consider a Thomas trade until the price gets to a point that will set them back from a talent acquisition point of view. Based on the 2025 season he had, giving up a first-round pick without a major return could come back to bite them in the rear end.

Grade: C+