The first domino of the Jets’ trade deadline plans has fallen.
New York sent defensive end Leonard Williams to the crosstown rival Giants on Monday in exchange for a 2020 third-round pick and a 2021 fifth-round pick that has the potential to become a fourth-round pick if Williams signs a contract extension with his new team before the start of the league year. The Jets will pay $4 million of Williams’ $6 million salary this season.
New York’s No. 6 overall pick out of USC in 2015, Williams’ got off to a fast start with the Jets, production dropped off significantly following his 2016 Pro Bowl season. Since 2017, he has recorded only 109 tackles and seven sacks after totaling 131 tackles and 10 sacks in his first two seasons. 2019 has arguably been Williams’ worst season to date, as he has essentially been a non-factor in multiples games and has yet to record a sack. In four and a half seasons with New York, Williams recorded 240 tackles, 32 tackles for loss and 17 sacks.
The Williams trade marks the first major move by Jets general manager Joe Douglas. It is also the first time the Jets and Giants have traded with each other. The Giants attempted to send offensive lineman Chris Foote to the Jets in exchange for a conditional draft pick in 1983, but the deal was nullified.
With Williams out the door, more moves could be in store for the Jets before tomorrow’s trade deadline. New York has been fielding calls on wide receiver Robby Anderson and interest surrounding the Temple product has picked up in recent days.
