The New York Jets have emerged as one of the biggest beneficiaries of the Indianapolis Colts' ongoing roster overhaul after the organization traded All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson and three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle DeForest Buckner on Tuesday.
Despite suffering a disappointing 28-25 loss to the previously winless Miami Dolphins on Sunday at MetLife Stadium, New York could benefit significantly from Indianapolis' decision to move two franchise cornerstones ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport highlighted the implications Tuesday via X, formerly known as Twitter.
“The #Colts first-round draft pick — which the #Jets own — continues to look better…”
The Jets currently own Indianapolis' first-round selection in the 2027 NFL Draft, meaning the Colts' struggles could improve New York's draft position.
Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team echoed Rapoport's assessment following Tuesday's trades.
“The #Colts are blowing it up and it’s benefiting the #Jets more than anyone. Wild times.”
Jets could benefit from Colts' roster overhaul
Indianapolis began Tuesday by trading Nelson to the reigning Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round selection.
Hours later, the Colts sent Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers for a 2027 fourth-round pick.
Article Continues BelowThe departures leave Indianapolis without two established veterans as the team sits at 2-5 following its Week 7 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
Meanwhile, New York also enters Week 8 with a 2-5 record but holds three first-round picks in the 2027 NFL Draft.
If Indianapolis continues struggling, its first-round selection could become an increasingly valuable asset for the Jets as they look toward rebuilding their roster.
New York will attempt to rebound from its loss to Miami when it hosts the Las Vegas Raiders (3-4) in Week 8 on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET on Fox.