Jermaine Johnson II has become one of the most talked-about edge defenders in the NFL — not just for his play on the field but also for recent trade developments, Madden ratings, draft pedigree, college journey, and injury comeback story. NFL fans and analysts alike are watching how his career unfolds after a challenging few seasons.
NFL Trade: Jets to Titans Deal
In a major 2026 offseason move, the Jermaine Johnson was traded by the New York Jets to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat.
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The trade will become official at the start of the new NFL league year on March 11, 2026.
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Johnson reunites with former Jets coach Robert Saleh, now leading the Titans.
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The Jets gain cap flexibility and a run-stopping interior lineman in Sweat, while Tennessee adds a proven pass-rusher with Pro Bowl experience.
This trade marks a pivotal point in Johnson’s career — giving him a fresh start after injury setbacks and uneven production.
Madden Rating: Evaluating the Virtual Edge
On the gaming side, Jermaine Johnson’s Madden 26 rating reflects both his talent and his real-world availability issues:
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In Madden NFL 26, Johnson’s rating has hovered around the high 70s PWR/OVR range (77-79 overall) with strong speed (85), acceleration (88), strength (82), and toughness attributes.
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His Injury rating is high (93) in the game, indicating good durability in the virtual world — though that hasn’t always translated to his real-life availability.
For fans of franchise and connected careers, Johnson remains a solid Madden asset — particularly in defensive schemes that rely on a power rusher.
NFL Draft: From Seminoles to the Pros
Johnson’s journey to the NFL spotlight began long before the pros:
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He was selected 26th overall in the 1st round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the New York Jets.
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Johnson’s draft stock skyrocketed thanks to his dominant senior year at Florida State University, where he earned ACC Defensive Player of the Year honors and led the conference with double-digit sacks.
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Prior to Florida State, he played at Independence Community College and the University of Georgia, showing steady improvement and athletic versatility.
Johnson’s draft profile was built on length, pass-rush ability, and upside — traits that made him a coveted first-round pass-rusher when his name was called in 2022.
College Career: Hard Knocks Before the Pros
Before his NFL success, Johnson’s college path was anything but conventional:
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He started at Independence Community College, where he earned notice for his disruptive play.
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Then moved on to the Georgia Bulldogs, contributing as a rotational edge defender.
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His final collegiate season at Florida State was a breakout year where he became one of the most dominant defensive players in the ACC.
Johnson’s college exit was marked by strong NFL draft tape — speed, power, and tackles for loss — helping justify his first-round selection.
Injury History: Achilles Setback and Recovery
Injuries have played a big role in Johnson’s NFL narrative:
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Johnson suffered a torn Achilles tendon in Week 2 of the 2024 season, leading to a season-ending stint on injured reserve.
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He has battled back and played through the 2025 season, though his production was somewhat reduced compared to his standout 2023 campaign.
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Additionally, intermittent ankle issues impacted his 2025 effectiveness, according to team reports.
Despite these setbacks, he has continued to contribute and remains a starting-caliber edge rusher.
Conclusion: A Career at a Crossroads
From his rise through junior college to a first-round draft selection, a Pro Bowl campaign, injury adversity, Madden ratings, and now a spring 2026 trade to the Titans, Jermaine Johnson’s career story remains compelling. Fans and analysts will be watching closely as he seeks to unlock his full potential in a new defensive scheme and prove that he’s truly recovered from his injuries.
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