Posted on Nov 04

Colts trade two firsts to Jets for All-Pro CB Gardner, adds WR Mitchell

Posted Nov 4, 2025

The Indianapolis Colts have acquired star cornerback Sauce Gardner from the New York Jets in a significant trade that reshapes both teams' futures.

Why it matters: This trade marks a pivotal moment for both franchises, as the Colts enhance their defensive capabilities while the Jets attempt to reposition themselves following a disappointing start to the season.

The Colts currently sit at 7-2, boasting one of the strongest records in the AFC, and securing Gardner is expected to bolster their already formidable pass defense.
Conversely, the Jets have struggled under first-year coach Aaron Glenn, holding a dismal record of 1-7, prompting a reevaluation of their roster.

What’s new: In exchange for Gardner, who was the fourth overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Jets receive two future first-round picks (2026 and 2027) and receiver AD Mitchell, selected in the second round of the 2024 draft by the Colts.

Gardner, who signed a four-year, $120.4 million extension with the Jets earlier this offseason, has already made an indelible mark on the league, being named first-team All-Pro in each of his first two seasons—a feat unmatched by any cornerback since the NFL-AFL merger in 1970.
His impressive performance includes winning the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 2022 and tallying multiple interceptions and pass deflections.

Yes, but: While Gardner's acquisition strengthens the Colts' secondary, questions remain over whether he can help turn around the Jets' fortunes this season amid ongoing struggles.

Gardner missed Week 8 due to a concussion but is expected to return to practice soon, indicating that his presence may not be felt immediately.
The Jets will need to see improvement ASAP if they hope to salvage their season and make a push toward playoff contention.

What to watch: As Gardner integrates into the Colts' defensive scheme, observers should monitor how his arrival affects the team’s defensive dynamics.

The Colts rank third in the NFL with 10 interceptions and allow just 6.8 yards per pass attempt, indicating a strong defensive foundation on which Gardner can build.
How Gardner meshes with current defensive backs and his ability to adapt to the Colts' system may define their success moving forward.

What’s next: The Colts are poised to leverage Gardner’s skills in upcoming matchups against divisional rivals, aiming to solidify their standing in the playoff race.

Meanwhile, the Jets will look to develop AD Mitchell and utilize the acquired draft capital to rebuild their roster for the future.
Gardner himself expressed a mix of emotions regarding the trade, stating simply, "New York it's been real," indicating his readiness for the next chapter in Indianapolis.

The bottom line: This trade signifies a bold move from both franchises—one seeking immediate greatness and the other eyeing long-term rebuilding. For the Colts, Gardner represents a critical investment in a championship-contending defense; for the Jets, a chance to recalibrate and re-strategize for future success.

Colts trade two firsts to Jets for All-Pro CB Gardner, adds WR Mitchell

Alex Parker

Posted Nov 4, 2025

The Indianapolis Colts have acquired star cornerback Sauce Gardner from the New York Jets in a significant trade that reshapes both teams' futures.

The Colts currently sit at 7-2, boasting one of the strongest records in the AFC, and securing Gardner is expected to bolster their already formidable pass defense.

Conversely, the Jets have struggled under first-year coach Aaron Glenn, holding a dismal record of 1-7, prompting a reevaluation of their roster.

Gardner, who signed a four-year, $120.4 million extension with the Jets earlier this offseason, has already made an indelible mark on the league, being named first-team All-Pro in each of his first two seasons—a feat unmatched by any cornerback since the NFL-AFL merger in 1970.

His impressive performance includes winning the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 2022 and tallying multiple interceptions and pass deflections.

Yes, but: While Gardner's acquisition strengthens the Colts' secondary, questions remain over whether he can help turn around the Jets' fortunes this season amid ongoing struggles.

Gardner missed Week 8 due to a concussion but is expected to return to practice soon, indicating that his presence may not be felt immediately.

The Jets will need to see improvement ASAP if they hope to salvage their season and make a push toward playoff contention.

What to watch: As Gardner integrates into the Colts' defensive scheme, observers should monitor how his arrival affects the team’s defensive dynamics.

The Colts rank third in the NFL with 10 interceptions and allow just 6.8 yards per pass attempt, indicating a strong defensive foundation on which Gardner can build.

How Gardner meshes with current defensive backs and his ability to adapt to the Colts' system may define their success moving forward.

What’s next: The Colts are poised to leverage Gardner’s skills in upcoming matchups against divisional rivals, aiming to solidify their standing in the playoff race.

Meanwhile, the Jets will look to develop AD Mitchell and utilize the acquired draft capital to rebuild their roster for the future.

Gardner himself expressed a mix of emotions regarding the trade, stating simply, "New York it's been real," indicating his readiness for the next chapter in Indianapolis.