As the National Football League opened its free agency window, both New York teams acted quickly in changing their rosters for the better. The New York Jets made the biggest splash by bringing in a familiar name when they traded for the Las Vegas Raiders starting quarterback Geno Smith. After nine seasons away, Smith returns to New York after the Jets gave up a 2026 sixth-round pick to the Raiders in exchange for Smith and a 2026 seventh-round pick. Smith is expected to step in as the Jets’ starting quarterback as the team’s rebuild continues.
The move came just one day after the Jets addressed their defense by trading for star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and extending him to a three-year, $40 million contract. The team also added several pieces on defense, signing defensive end Joseph Ossai, defensive tackle David Onyemata, edge rusher Kingsley Enagbare, and safety Dane Belton. Perhaps the biggest leadership addition came with the signing of veteran linebacker Demario Davis, who brings experience and stability to a completely revamped side of the ball.
Meanwhile, the New York Giants also made several moves of their own. Big Blue brought in a player favored by Jim Harbaugh when they landed tight end Isaiah Likely. The talented tight end often played second fiddle during his time with the Baltimore Ravens, but when given the opportunity, he consistently showed flashes of his upside and playmaking ability.
The Giants then released linebacker Bobby Okereke and moved quickly to fill the position by signing Tremaine Edmunds. They continued to add offensive pieces by bringing back wide receiver Isaiah Hodgins and adding offensive lineman Jermaine Eluemunor to strengthen the line.
Defensively, the Giants added veteran cornerback Greg Newsome II along with defensive back Ar'Darius Washington as they continue reshaping their roster heading into the upcoming season.