Jets' defensive trades raise questions about confidence in offense

Schefter later reported New York agreed to send a 2026 sixth-rounder and 2027 sixth-rounder to the Minnesota Vikings for DT Harrison Phillips and a 2027 seventh-rounder.

The defensive trades signal the Jets are worried about their passing offense, which has reportedly struggled throughout training camp.

Jets starting quarterback Justin Fields even admitted the unit may not be explosive this season. 

"I mean, we're fine with taking eight-yard completions every play if I'm being honest with you," the QB told the media Tuesday. "It might not be as exciting on the offensive side of the ball for fans, but like I said, it's efficient ball. It's also getting the defense tired just driving down the field like that." 

New Jets offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand attempted to clarify Fields' comment Wednesday, saying he's going to take what the defense gives him. 

Even so, Fields has struggled to throw the ball accurately throughout his career. The 2021 first-round pick completed a below-average 61.1% of his passes for 7,780 yards with 45 touchdowns and 31 interceptions in his first four seasons with the Chicago Bears and Pittsburgh Steelers. 

With that in mind, the Jets seem to be doubling down on their defense, which ranked third in yards allowed (313.8) last season. 

Neither Phillips nor Briggs is elite, but they shore up a D-line that already features three-time Pro Bowl DT Quinnen Williams. 

Phillips had 148 solo tackles in his first seven seasons with the Vikings and Buffalo Bills. Pro Football Focus gave Briggs a decent 66.5 run-defense grade in six games last season.

New York seems prepared to play a low-scoring brand of football this season. But if it helps the Jets exceed expectations and end a 14-year playoff drought, their fans won't care.