The Jets moved up from No. 124 to No. 112 for running back…
The Jets moved up from No. 124 to No. 112 for running back Joe McKnight, sending Carolina an additional sixth-round pick. McKnight became an elite kickoff returner, topping 1,000 return yards in both 2011 and 2012 and scoring a return touchdown each season. Carolina selected Eric Norwood and David Gettis; Gettis produced 508 receiving yards as a rookie, but the combined return was too brief to surpass McKnight's special-teams impact.
Carolina Panthers Received
- pick 2010 4th round pick (124th overall, Eric Norwood )
- pick 2010 6th round pick (198th overall, David Gettis)
New York Jets Received
- pick 2010 4th round pick (112th overall, Joe McKnight)
Trade Analysis
Why the Jets Moved Up
New York sent Carolina the 124th and 198th picks in the 2010 draft for No. 112, then selected USC running back Joe McKnight. The Jets were adding speed and versatility to a roster built around defense, the running game and special teams. Carolina used the two incoming choices on linebacker Eric Norwood and receiver David Gettis.
What McKnight Gave New York
McKnight's greatest value came as a kickoff returner. In 2011 he totaled 1,073 kickoff-return yards, averaged 31.6 yards per return and scored a touchdown. He followed with 1,072 return yards, a 27.5-yard average and another score in 2012. He also rushed for 505 yards during his Jets career. That special-teams peak gave New York a field-position weapon beyond his backup running-back role.
What Carolina Received
Gettis had a promising rookie season with 37 catches for 508 yards and three touchdowns, but injuries derailed his chance to build on it. Norwood appeared in 28 games for Carolina, mostly as a reserve, and recorded one sack. The Panthers therefore received two players who contributed, but neither produced a sustained starting role.
Why This Trade Still Matters
The result is closer than McKnight's reputation alone suggests. Carolina got a useful rookie receiver season and defensive depth. The Jets, however, received two years of top-level kickoff-return production from the player they specifically moved up to select.
Final Verdict
New York Jets Win. The Jets earn a B- for McKnight's exceptional return value and complementary rushing work. Carolina receives a C+ because Gettis and Norwood produced some real value. The margin is modest, but McKnight's special-teams peak gives New York the better outcome.