Former New York Jets slot cornerback Michael Carter was once considered one of the best at his position around the league.
Injuries and ineffective play over the last couple of years left the Jets with no choice, though.
Carter was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for former Alabama wide receiver John Metchie III last week — a move that saved New York cap space and added another weapon to a struggling passing offense.
Saying goodbye to a strong leader and veteran is never easy. Carter was an excellent player for the Jets since 2021, but his standing with the team changed upon the arrival of a new coaching staff.
Now, the Jets are just happy to have another receiver who could help fix a passing offense that has been inconsistent, to put it kindly.
Jets address John Metchie trade
Few young players in NFL history have endured the kind of unfortunate luck Metchie has faced during his career. Originally a second-round pick out of Alabama, Metchie was diagnosed with leukemia in July 2022.
He missed his entire rookie season while undergoing treatment and recovery.
When he returned the following year, Metchie was buried on the depth chart in a crowded Houston Texans receiver room. It was a similar situation with the Philadelphia Eagles, who acquired him in a preseason trade on Aug. 18, 2025.
After playing behind Pro Bowl and All-Pro talents such as Nico Collins, Stefon Diggs, A.J. Brown, and DeVonta Smith, Metchie now has something in New York he hasn’t had since entering the league: A golden opportunity for playing time.
“He is our type of guy,” Jets head coach Aaron Glenn said Monday. “Some of the things that he talked about really resonate with what we talk about here… our brand of football that we talk about in-house really fits who the player is, so I’m excited to have him. Looking forward to him getting out and being part of what we’re trying to accomplish this season.”
Metchie may only have four receptions this season, but with the state of the Jets’ receiving corps, he should be a welcome addition to the roster — and at a much-needed time.
Receiver room update
New York is thrilled to welcome Metchie into its receiver room. Outside of former Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson, the team is severely lacking in quality depth out wide.
With Josh Reynolds on injured reserve, the Jets’ receiver group consists of fourth-round rookie Arian Smith, free-agent pickup Tyler Johnson, veteran Allen Lazard, and return specialist Isaiah Williams.
In short, there’s a good chance Metchie can earn playing time much earlier than expected.
In college, Metchie was known as a crisp route-runner with good speed to get behind defenses. The Jets are hoping to see those very skills within an offense that ranks last in passing yards.
Due to circumstances beyond his control, Metchie has struggled to make an impact early in his career. Now, on his third team in two seasons, he’s hoping the Jets can provide the opportunity he’s been waiting for.
