Mecole Hardman's Already Gone, Veteran Defensive End Next?

Is there another trade on the horizon for the Jets?

The New York Jets have already shipped away a rarely-used offensive skill player. Will a sparingly-deployed defensive end meet a similar fate as the NFL trade deadline approaches? 

After inking a one-year deal this past March, slot receiver Mecole Hardman was unable to carve out a role on the Jets' offense. Participating in fewer than 10 percent of the team's snaps through six weeks, the former second-round draft pick managed only one catch in a Green & White uniform. On October 18, Gang Green sent Hardman to Kansas City in a trade that also featured a swap of 2025 late-round selections.

The move sparked speculation that other underperforming veterans could be on the move in the coming days as the Jets prep for their post-bye week run. 

Considering his lack of usage, high-priced pass rusher Carl Lawson is one name to monitor moving forward. Lawson, who dealt with a back issue during August, was a Week 1 inactive and was also down for the Week 5 win in Denver. 

Lawson, who has three tackles and no quarterback hits to his credit, has played only 73 snaps combined over four appearances while slipping down the depth chart.

The Jets have had six edge rushers active on four occasions this season, but there simply aren't enough snaps for all of them. 

Starter John Franklin-Myers has eight quarterback hits in six games while Bryce Huff leads the league in pressure rate. Then, with second-year pro Jermaine Johnson taking a step forward, there has been little opportunity for Lawson to see the field. First-round rookie Will McDonald also warrants some reps, further crowding the picture.

Lawson received a season-high 21 defensive snaps (30 percent) in Week 6 against Philadelphia while the rookie McDonald logged six reps. The veteran, who is on the final season of a three-year, $45 million contract, seemed nearly invisible in the 20-14 victory. 

The Jets may be able to flip Lawson in exchange for a Day 3 draft pick, considering the need for edge rushers across the league. Coming back from a torn Achilles, Lawson made 17 starts and 7.0 sacks in 2022.

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