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Jets Trade Speculation Heating Up; Giants Tabbed Fit For New York's Star

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, October 2nd 2025 at 13:26 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Jets Trade Rumors Heat Up: Giants Could Be the Fit for New York’s Star Zach Ertz

As the National Football League’s trade deadline approaches, the New York Jets find themselves in the middle of a flurry of speculation that could reshape their roster for the 2024 season. According to a recent Sports Illustrated feature, the Jets are reportedly eyeing a high‑profile trade for tight end Zach Ertz, a player who has consistently proven himself as one of the league’s most reliable targets. While Ertz is a free agent in the current off‑season, his contract status, combined with the Jets’ offensive shortcomings, has made him a tantalizing prospect for the team's front office. Interestingly, the Giants are being flagged as a potential partner in this deal, a pairing that could make sense from both teams’ roster‑building perspectives.

Why Zach Ertz?

Zach Ertz has carved out a reputation as a go‑to weapon in the Philadelphia Eagles’ offense, finishing the past few seasons with a combined 1,100 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns. The tight end has been praised for his route‑running precision, hands reliability, and blocking ability – qualities that would fit nicely into the Jets’ offensive scheme. With the Jets’ offensive line still struggling to protect their quarterback, a player like Ertz could be the missing piece that allows the team to run a more balanced attack.

Ertz’s contract is another key factor. The player was set to become a free agent after the 2023 season, leaving the Jets with a window to acquire him before other teams begin to court him. For the Jets, adding Ertz would not only bring veteran leadership to a young roster but also provide a steady target for a quarterback who has yet to find a long‑term fit.

Giants: The Unexpected Match

It may come as a surprise that the New York Giants could be the trade partner for the Jets in a deal involving Zach Ertz. However, a closer look at the Giants’ roster and salary cap situation suggests a possible synergy. The Giants have an immediate need at tight end, with their current options – such as Dalton Schultz and Tyler Johnson – providing solid production but lacking the elite playmaking ability that Ertz brings. Additionally, the Giants have a surplus of pass rushers and might be willing to part with a lower‑tier defensive lineman or a draft pick in exchange for a top‑tier tight end.

Sports Illustrated’s analysis indicates that the Giants might have a surplus of capital in the form of first‑ and second‑round picks, which could be used to acquire a player of Ertz’s caliber. The Jets, on the other hand, could potentially trade a mid‑round pick or a backup player to sweeten the deal. The two teams share a geographic proximity that could simplify the logistics of a trade, and a partnership between New York-based franchises often captures fan interest and media attention.

What the Trade Could Look Like

While no concrete offers have been announced, the most likely scenario, according to the article, involves the Jets giving up a mid‑round pick in the upcoming draft (or a backup tight end) in exchange for Ertz and a first‑round pick. Alternatively, the Jets could send a backup defensive tackle and a lower‑round pick to the Giants in exchange for Ertz and a mid‑round pick. These options would allow the Jets to add a star player while still maintaining a healthy draft position.

For the Giants, acquiring Ertz would be a strategic move to boost their offense, and trading away a backup tight end or a defensive lineman would keep their roster balanced. However, the Giants would also need to consider the impact on their cap space, as Ertz’s veteran contract would bring a significant salary figure into their books. The article notes that the Giants’ management is reportedly willing to explore creative cap‑management solutions to make the trade work.

Team Needs and Context

The Jets’ offseason was marked by a scramble to shore up a porous offensive line and a lackluster receiving corps. In 2023, the team finished 3–14, their worst record since 2005, and the offensive line ranked last in sacks allowed. In addition to a new quarterback, the Jets are in need of a dependable tight end who can catch the ball, block effectively, and mentor the younger receivers.

The Giants, meanwhile, finished 5–12 in the previous season, but the coaching staff has emphasized the importance of bolstering the front seven and adding a big playmaker to their offense. A player like Ertz could also be used in multiple positions—tight end, H‑back, and even in a split‑back formation—giving the Giants a versatile weapon.

What to Watch

• Jets’ Off‑Season Moves: The Jets will need to be quick if they want to secure Ertz before other teams swoop in. The deadline for free agents is a few weeks away, and the Jets’ GM is reportedly in constant contact with the player’s agent.

• Giants’ Cap Situation: While the Giants are eager to add a top tight end, they will need to ensure that the trade doesn’t leave them over the cap. This could involve renegotiating other contracts or using a salary cap relief strategy.

• Player Responses: Ertz’s willingness to move to the Jets and his reaction to the trade talks will be pivotal. If he’s interested in a change of scenery, the Jets could be in a good position to finalize a deal.

• Other Potential Trade Partners: While the Giants are highlighted, other teams could also be interested in acquiring Ertz. A trade with the Dallas Cowboys, the Washington Commanders, or even a team like the Minnesota Vikings could surface if the Giants decide to stay in the market.

Final Thoughts

The New York Jets’ trade speculation is a fascinating development that showcases the complexity of roster building in the NFL. A deal involving a player of Zach Ertz’s stature would not only bring a proven talent to the Jets but could also signal a serious intent to compete in the highly competitive AFC East. For the Giants, the opportunity to add a high‑level tight end could pay dividends if the organization can navigate the financial aspects of the trade.

Ultimately, the trade’s success will depend on a careful balance of timing, cap space, and on‑field fit. If the Jets can secure Ertz before other teams, the franchise may finally find the missing piece that has been frustrating its fans for years. For now, the trade deadline looms, and all eyes will remain on the Jets and Giants as they navigate a season of potential roster reinvention.