Colts acquire Sauce Gardner from Jets for 2 first-round picks and AD Mitchell in a blockbuster 2025 NFL trade. Full details and analysis inside.
Jets Trade Sauce Gardner to Colts for 2 First-Round Picks and AD Mitchell
In one of the most shocking NFL trades of 2025, the New York Jets traded star cornerback Sauce Gardner to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for two first-round draft picks (2026 & 2027) and wide receiver AD Mitchell, according to ESPN insider Adam Schefter. The blockbuster move came just hours before the NFL trade deadline, shaking up the AFC playoff landscape.
Trade Details and Background
The Jets trade Sauce Gardner to Colts for 2 1st-round picks and AD Mitchell comes only months after Gardner signed a four-year, $120.4 million extension with New York — the richest cornerback contract in NFL history.
Now, the 24-year-old All-Pro defender will suit up for the 7-2 Colts, who have surged to the top of the AFC standings.
Trade Breakdown:
- To Colts: Sauce Gardner (CB)
- To Jets: 2026 & 2027 first-round picks + WR AD Mitchell
- Contract: Gardner signed through 2029 ($120.4 million total)
Why the Colts Made the Move
The Colts are going all-in. Sitting at 7-2, tied for the best record in the AFC, the team wanted to solidify its pass defence before a playoff run.
Colts’ Defensive Rankings Before Trade:
| Metric | Rank | Stat |
|---|---|---|
| Passing yards allowed per game | 26th | 244.8 yds |
| Third-down defence | 29th | 46% conversions |
| Passing yards allowed outside numbers | 32nd | 152.2 yds |
Despite success in turnover margin (10 interceptions, 3rd in NFL), the Colts lacked a true lockdown corner. Sauce Gardner fills that void immediately, giving Indy a legitimate top-five secondary.
Gardner’s Value
Since entering the league, Gardner has been one of the most dominant defenders in football:
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2022)
- First-team All-Pro in 2022 & 2023
- Only cornerback since 1970 to earn All-Pro honors in each of his first two seasons
- 2025 season (pre-trade): 20 tackles, 6 pass breakups, 0 TDs allowed
His coverage rating of 71.3 (PFF) ranks 21st among corners this season, and his run-defence grade of 80.9 (sixth overall) adds versatility to the Colts’ defence.
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Why the Jets Accepted the Trade
At 1-7, the Jets are already looking ahead. With new head coach Aaron Glenn’s first year off to a rocky start, the team chose to cash in on Gardner’s value for future assets.
Rebuild and Future Assets
The Jets receive:
- Two first-round picks (2026 & 2027) — providing major flexibility in future drafts
- WR AD Mitchell, a 2024 second-round selection with speed and potential
Mitchell’s rookie campaign (2025 to date):
- 28 receptions | 356 yards | 3 touchdowns in nine games
This gives New York a chance to pair Mitchell with star receiver Garrett Wilson and rebuild around young talent.
Complete Stats Comparison
| Category | Sauce Gardner (Career) | 2025 Season (pre-trade) | Team Rank Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Games Played | 55 | 7 | — |
| Total Tackles | 201 | 20 | — |
| Passes Defensed | 46 | 6 | 12th in NFL |
| Interceptions | 3 | 0 | — |
| Coverage Grade (PFF) | 71.3 | 71.3 | +15 team ranking expected |
| Run Defence Grade (PFF) | 80.9 | 80.9 | +6 ranking expected |
| Colts Record | — | — | 7-2 (before trade) |
| Jets Record | — | — | 1-7 (before trade) |
Trade Impact and Outlook
For the Colts:
With Gardner anchoring their secondary, the Colts’ Super Bowl hopes are alive and well. Analysts project their defensive efficiency to rise from 20th to top 10 by season’s end.
Quarterback Anthony Richardson and receiver Michael Pittman Jr. continue to lead a balanced attack, while Gardner’s addition could push Indy’s defence into elite territory.
For the Jets:
The Jets’ move signals a clear rebuild strategy. They now own five first-round picks between 2026–2027, giving them the assets to chase a franchise quarterback or rebuild the secondary depth lost in Gardner’s departure.
Key Takeaways
- Sauce Gardner traded to Colts in a blockbuster 2025 NFL deal.
- Jets acquire two first-rounders + WR AD Mitchell.
- Colts strengthen their defence, while Jets plan a long-term rebuild.
- Gardner remains one of the NFL’s elite corners, holding opponents to under 42% completion rate since his rookie year.
FAQs About Jets Trade Sauce Gardner to Colts for 2 1st-Round Picks and AD Mitchell
1. Why did the Jets trade Sauce Gardner to the Colts?
The Jets traded Sauce Gardner to the Colts to gain future draft capital and begin a rebuild after a disappointing 1-7 start. The deal provides flexibility for the team’s long-term plans.
2. What did the Colts give up for Sauce Gardner?
The Colts sent the Jets two first-round picks (2026 and 2027) and wide receiver AD Mitchell in exchange for the All-Pro cornerback.
3. How much is Sauce Gardner’s contract worth?
Gardner’s current deal is a four-year, $120.4 million contract, signed in 2025 with the Jets. The Colts inherit that contract, keeping him under control through 2029.
4. How will Sauce Gardner impact the Colts’ defence?
Gardner instantly upgrades the Colts’ secondary, which ranked 26th in pass defence before the trade. His elite coverage skills and leadership could elevate Indy to a top-10 defence.
5. What does this mean for the Jets’ future?
The trade sets the Jets up with multiple first-round picks and a young offensive weapon in Mitchell, signaling a complete rebuild focused on 2026 and beyond.
Conclusion
The Jets trade Sauce Gardner to Colts for 2 1st-round picks and AD Mitchell will go down as one of the most shocking moves in modern NFL history — a franchise-defining gamble for both sides. If Gardner continues his All-Pro dominance, the Colts’ championship window could open immediately. But for the Jets, patience and smart drafting will decide whether this bold trade becomes their turning point or their biggest regret.
