The Indianapolis Colts made a splash ahead of Tuesday’s trade deadline, reportedly sending two first-round picks to the New York Jets for star cornerback Sauce Gardner.
Gardner, 25, was the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2022 and is a two-time Pro Bowl and All-Pro first-team selection since being selected with the No. 4 overall pick in 2022.
Gardner appeared to confirm the reports on social media. “New York it’s been real,” he posted on X, along with a green heart emoji.
The Jets will receive the Colts’ first-round picks in 2026 and 2027 along with wide receiver AD Mitchell in exchange for Gardner, NFL Network reported.
Gardner recorded 20 tackles and six passes defensed in the first seven games this season before missing the Week 8 win at Cincinnati in concussion protocol. The Jets (1-7) had a bye last weekend.
He signed a four-year, $120.4 million contract extension in July that made him the NFL’s highest-paid player at his position with a $30.1 million average annual value.
Gardner has recorded three interceptions, 46 passes defensed, 201 tackles and one forced fumble in 55 games (all starts).
The Colts (7-2) are enjoying their best season since their last trip to the playoffs in 2020.
