In a move that demonstrates their commitment to improving their defense, the New York Jets have made a significant trade with the Philadelphia Eagles. According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, the Jets will acquire edge rusher Haason Reddick in exchange for a conditional 2026 third-round pick.

The trade conditions could change based on Reddick's performance. If he achieves a playtime of 67.5% and records at least 10 sacks, the pick could be altered. As part of the deal, the Jets will take on $14.5 million of Reddick's total compensation for 2024, the final year of his existing contract. The Eagles will account for Reddick's $1 million roster bonus, which was due in March, as reported by NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo.

This trade can be seen as a swap of edge-rushing talent, coming weeks after the Jets lost Bryce Huff to the Eagles on a lucrative three-year, $51.1 million deal. With the acquisition of Reddick, the Jets are clearly signaling their commitment to the 2024 season.

Reddick's compensation has been a contentious issue for the Eagles since early February when they granted him permission to seek a trade. After an impressive 2023 season, where Reddick posted 11 sacks and 38 tackles (13 for loss), earning a Pro Bowl nod for the second year in a row, the Eagles were reluctant to pay his increased salary of $21.8 million in 2024, or carry his $14.6 million dead cap number in 2025.

The Eagles found a solution to their dilemma after Jadeveon Clowney signed with the Carolina Panthers. The Jets, who had missed out on Clowney, were in need of another proven pass rusher following Huff's departure. Placing Reddick alongside Jermaine Johnson, the Jets are expected to have one of the most formidable defensive fronts in the league.

Reddick's journey has been quite remarkable. Initially considered a bust in his final year with the Arizona Cardinals, he managed to resurrect his career narrative with four consecutive seasons of quality production across three different teams- the Cardinals, Carolina Panthers, and now the Eagles.

While the Jets hope to secure Reddick on a long-term deal, he currently finds himself on a one-year contract with a team that values his abilities as an edge rusher. The Jets' defense, which has been a strength in recent years, will benefit from Reddick's presence.

With this trade, the Jets are making it clear that they are willing to spare no expense in their pursuit of success, particularly with Aaron Rodgers as their quarterback. As they load up for their second year with Rodgers, the addition of Reddick significantly strengthens their defense, setting the stage for an exciting 2024 season.