One disgruntled Cowboys star just turned social media upside down, and the trade everyone’s been waiting for is closer than ever.QQ
With the NFL trade deadline approaching, Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones has signaled that the team is “open for business.” However, Jones has also indicated a willingness to play the waiting game, letting other teams come to him with offers. For a Cowboys team with glaring weaknesses, particularly on defense, this passive approach might not cut it. Dallas has a stockpile of draft picks that could be leveraged to bolster the roster, and one player who should be at the top of their trade target list is New York Jets Pro Bowl linebacker Jermaine Johnson II.
New York Jets linebacker Jermaine Johnson celebrates a defensive stop in the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers
The Cowboys’ defense, particularly at safety and linebacker, has shown vulnerabilities that need addressing to compete in a tough NFC. Jermaine Johnson, a 26-year-old versatile playmaker, could be the answer to their linebacker woes. Selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Florida State, Johnson has a pre-existing connection with the Cowboys’ coaching staff. He played under current Cowboys defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton, who held the same role with the Jets from 2021 to 2024.
Washington Commanders running back Antonio Gibson is tackled by New York Jets linebacker Jermaine Johnson
Johnson’s resume speaks for itself. In his first two seasons with the Jets, he racked up 84 total tackles, 10 sacks, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, an interception, and a touchdown. He also contributed seven passes defensed and eight run stuffs, showcasing his ability to impact both the pass and run game. Unfortunately, a torn Achilles in September 2024 sidelined him for the remainder of the season. However, his youth and proven production make him a high-upside target for a Cowboys team looking to fortify its defense.
The Jets’ dismal 0-7 start to the 2024 season has created a fire sale atmosphere, with several players reportedly available ahead of the trade deadline. Johnson, though not openly requesting a trade, has hinted at frustration with the team’s struggles. Following the Jets’ 13-6 loss to the Carolina Panthers, where the offense failed to find a rhythm, Johnson posted a cryptic message on social media that suggested he’s unhappy with the current state of affairs in New York. For a player of his caliber, a fresh start with a contending team like Dallas could be the perfect opportunity to reignite his career.
Acquiring Johnson would immediately elevate the Cowboys’ linebacker unit. Pairing him with DeMarvion Overshown, who is also 25, would create a formidable duo capable of wreaking havoc on opposing offenses. Add in other young talents like Kenneth Murray (26), Jack Sanborn (25), Marist Liufau (24), and Shemar James (21), and Dallas could boast one of the youngest and most dynamic linebacker groups in the NFL. This infusion of youth and talent would provide depth and versatility, addressing a critical need for the team.
Jerry Jones has the assets to make a deal happen, with an arsenal of draft picks at his disposal. Waiting for the phone to ring might not be the best strategy when a player like Johnson is potentially available. The Cowboys showed promising momentum in Week 7, and capitalizing on that with a bold trade could set the stage for a strong second half of the season. Johnson’s familiarity with the coaching staff, combined with his proven production and potential for growth, makes him an ideal target.
It’s time for Jerry Jones to stop dragging his feet and make a move. The perfect trade opportunity is staring the Cowboys in the face, and with Johnson lighting up social media with hints of discontent, Dallas needs to act fast to secure a game-changer for their defense.
