Jets Face Tough Decisions as Breece Hall Trade Rumors Swirl
The New York Jets are heading into an offseason filled with critical decisions, and one name at the center of the discussion is running back Breece Hall. NFL expert Michael Ginnitti of Spotrac has predicted a potential blockbuster move involving Hall, suggesting the Dallas Cowboys could acquire the dynamic back in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick and a 2025 sixth-rounder.
“From A-Z, the Jets organization appears to be at a crossroads, setting up an opportunity for rostered players nearing [their] next contract negotiations to be poached,” Ginnitti said. “Running back appears to be one of the deeper positions on this Jets roster, setting them up to float Hall in trade discussions this March as they look to bulk up on draft picks for the pending rebuild.”
Breece Hall: The Trade Debate
At just 23 years old, Hall remains under his rookie contract through 2025. This offseason, he becomes eligible for a contract extension, but whether the Jets will offer one is a significant question. Spotrac projects Hall’s market value at four years, $28.3 million, an annual salary of $7.1 million that would make him the 13th-highest-paid running back in the NFL.
Despite entering the season as ESPN’s second-ranked running back, Hall’s 2024 campaign fell short of expectations. He rushed for 819 yards on 4.2 yards per carry with five touchdowns and added 54 receptions for 468 receiving yards and two scores. These numbers are solid but far from elite, particularly when juxtaposed with the Jets’ struggles as a team.
What Are the Jets’ Options?
The Jets have several pathways to consider regarding Hall:
- Keep Hall Under Contract: With one year left on his deal, the Jets could hold onto Hall and see if he thrives under a new offensive system in 2025. They also have the option to use the franchise tag in 2026, projected at $13.6 million—a manageable number compared to other positions.
- Explore Trade Possibilities: Moving Hall now would allow the Jets to acquire draft capital for their impending rebuild. However, the market for running backs is notoriously undervalued, with many teams reluctant to give up significant assets for the position.
- Commit Long-Term: The Jets could extend Hall and lock in his services through his prime years. While running backs have a shorter shelf life in the NFL, Hall’s age and potential upside make this an intriguing option.
The Case for Keeping Hall
Trading Hall for mid-to-late-round picks might not yield the return the Jets are hoping for. Despite a down season, Hall has shown flashes of being a home-run threat, capable of changing games with his explosiveness. For a team potentially facing a regime change and new offensive system, keeping a proven playmaker like Hall could be a smart move.
With the Jets at a crossroads, how they handle Hall will speak volumes about their approach to the rebuild. For now, Jets fans can only wait and wonder if their young star will remain in green or find himself donning a new jersey in 2025.
