BREAKING NEWS: New York Giants Gear Up to Trade for Jets First-Round Talent Alijah Vera-Tucker Amid Contract ‘Dilemma’.
June 22, 2025 | East Rutherford, NJ — In a move that could shake up both locker rooms at MetLife Stadium, the New York Giants are reportedly in advanced talks to acquire standout offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker from their stadium co-tenants, the New York Jets. The former first-round pick, widely considered a foundational piece on the Jets’ offensive line, is at the center of a growing contract dilemma — one that may now force a blockbuster inter-city trade.
Sources close to the situation have confirmed that Vera-Tucker, 25, and the Jets have reached a stalemate in contract negotiations, with the player’s camp seeking a long-term extension worth over $20 million annually — a figure the Jets have been reluctant to meet due to cap constraints and recent injury concerns.
The Giants, meanwhile, are desperate to bolster their offensive line, which struggled mightily last season protecting quarterback Daniel Jones and opening up run lanes. With All-Pro left tackle Andrew Thomas entrenched, bringing in Vera-Tucker — a versatile lineman capable of playing guard or tackle — would instantly upgrade the unit.
> “We are exploring all options to strengthen our team,” a Giants official said on background. “A player like Alijah doesn’t come around often. If the price is right, we’re ready.”
While trade specifics remain undisclosed, insiders suggest the Giants could part with a 2026 second-round pick and a mid-tier player to seal the deal. The Jets, facing a logjam of financial decisions ahead — including potential mega-deals for Sauce Gardner and Garrett Wilson — may opt to capitalize on Vera-Tucker’s trade value now rather than risk losing him for nothing.
Drafted 14th overall in 2021, Vera-Tucker has been praised for his athleticism, versatility, and leadership. Despite missing time due to injury in 2023, he bounced back strong in 2024 and remains one of the most respected young linemen in the league.
If the deal goes through, it would mark the first major trade between the Giants and Jets in over a decade — a rare intra-stadium transaction that underscores the urgency on both sides.
More updates to follow as this high-stakes deal develops.
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