The New York Jets granted wide receiver Allen Lazard permission to seek a trade earlier this month, yet no deal has been reached. Despite free agency being in full swing, Lazard remains on the roster, which has raised eyebrows among analysts, including ESPN’s Rich Cimini. While sources indicate that “many conversations” have taken place, no concrete developments have emerged, leaving the situation unresolved.
Lazard’s Contract and Rodgers’ Future Complicate Jets’ Trade and Salary Cap Decisions
One of the main hurdles in moving Lazard is his contract. His four-year deal guaranteed him $22 million over the past two seasons, but in 2025, he is set to earn an $11 million base salary with a $13.184 million cap hit. The lack of immediate financial triggers in the contract allows the Jets to hold onto him without urgent pressure.
However, if they release him before June 1, they will absorb the full $6.552 million cap charge in 2025, whereas a post-June 1 release would split the cap hit between 2025 and 2026.
Allen Lazard (NFL)Another key factor influencing Lazard’s future is quarterback Aaron Rodgers. If Rodgers joins a new team, that franchise could be the most likely trade partner for Lazard, assuming Rodgers wants him on board. The Jets previously accommodated Rodgers’ preferences, and another team might do the same. However, that team would need to be willing to take on Lazard’s contract, which remains a financial challenge.
Jets Face Tough Decisions on Lazard Amid Cap Constraints and Trade Uncertainty
The Jets’ options are narrowing. Since they have already used their two post-June 1 designations on Rodgers and linebacker C.J. Mosley, they cannot apply this designation to Lazard.
This leaves them with three choices: trade him, release him after June 1 to distribute the cap hit over two years, or cut him before June 1 and absorb the full impact in 2025. Alternatively, Lazard could agree to a reduced salary to either stay with the team or make a trade more feasible.
Time is a critical factor in this standoff. If Lazard remains on the roster into the offseason program and suffers a serious injury, the Jets would be responsible for his full $11 million salary in 2025. Given these risks and financial constraints, it appears increasingly likely that Lazard will not be on the Jets’ roster by the time the 2025 season begins—whether through trade, release, or a negotiated compromise.
