NFL trades don't happen out of thin air. The Indianapolis Colts ' acquisition of cornerback Sauce Gardner from the New York Jets is an example of making big things happen over several weeks.

Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated recounts the deals the Jets made at the trade deadline that yielded them several first- and second-round draft picks. The Colts gave up first-rounders in 2026 and '27, and wide receiver Adonai Mitchell, for Gardner. New York also sent defensive lineman Quinnen Williams to the Dallas Cowboys.

Feelers went out shortly after Charvarius Ward collided with Drew Ogletree during pregame warmups in Week 6. Colts assistant general manager Ed Dodds talked with Jets GM Darren Mougey, who said he would listen to offers for any Jets defensive player.

Dodds relayed th

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