There’s been some online buzz lately about the possibility of the Minnesota Vikings trading wide receiver Jordan Addison to the New York Jets in exchange for All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner. While it’s all speculation for now, if the Vikings believe Gardner could be the key to reaching their championship aspirations, they should seriously consider exploring this trade during the offseason.
Gardner, who has been in the NFL since 2022, is still just 24 years old and is regarded as one of the top cornerbacks in the league. Adding him to Minnesota’s roster could potentially make them the most formidable defense in the NFL next season.
Trade Proposal Breakdown:
Minnesota Vikings Receive:
- Sauce Gardner – CB
- 2025 4th-Round Pick (No. 109)
New York Jets Receive:
- Jordan Addison – WR
- 2025 3rd-Round Pick (No. 97)
- 2026 1st-Round Pick
Given Gardner’s young age and impressive performance so far in his career, it’s safe to assume that the Jets would only entertain a trade if they received at least one first-round pick in return. To make this trade work, the Vikings would hold on to their first-round pick for this year but would part with their 2026 first-round selection.
Now, some might question why the Vikings would consider moving on from Addison after just two seasons. Despite showing promise on the field, Addison has encountered off-field issues, including one incident that could result in a suspension at the start of next season. Additionally, with Minnesota already committed to paying All-Pro receiver Justin Jefferson a massive salary, the team may not want to carry two receivers earning more than $25 million annually (especially if Addison continues to perform at a high level and seeks a big payday).
Looking ahead, if quarterback J.J. McCarthy emerges as the team’s future franchise QB, the Vikings will likely need to free up cap space for his eventual contract extension. Rather than risk losing Addison for nothing in a few years, trading him for a player like Gardner, who could solidify their defense, might be a wise move.
The trade would also require the Vikings to consider a significant extension for Gardner, as he will likely want to become the highest-paid cornerback in the league. However, with the potential to lock him down long-term, the Vikings should be able to justify such an investment.
So, what’s the verdict on this proposed deal? Did the Vikings give up too much, or will it take even more to land a talent like Sauce Gardner from the Jets?
