Read, Watch or Listen

Less than four months after making Sauce Gardner the league’s top-paid cornerback, the Jets dealt him to the Colts. G.M. Darren Mougey said the $30.1 million-per-year contract was intentionally built to be easily traded, underscoring how many big-money deals prioritize flexibility over permanence. The Jets have paid Gardner under $15 million and will absorb an $11 million cap charge next year. In return, they received two first-round picks and receiver AD Mitchell. The episode highlights a leaguewide reality: players are movable parts, not untouchable fixtures.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.