After a dismal 0-7 skid with Jets, Jermaine Johnson paves way out of Jets with controversial postgame comments — Fans outraged, speculating he wants to join San Francisco 49ers

East Rutherford, NJ – October 20, 2025

After a disappointing 13-6 loss to the Carolina Panthers in Week 7, New York Jets edge rusher Jermaine Johnson sent shockwaves through the fanbase with a stunning postgame remark, sparking speculation that he’s eyeing a move to the San Francisco 49ers.

In a candid interview after the defeat at MetLife Stadium, Johnson unexpectedly praised the 49ers – a team unrelated to the game – as the NFL’s benchmark: “The 49ers are on another level—built for the Super Bowl. The way they control the game, the way that defense overwhelms you—that’s pure dominance. I want to play for a team like that, a team that’s not just a contender but the standard.” The comment exploded on social media, igniting a firestorm of criticism from Jets Nation. Many branded Johnson a “traitor” for lauding another team after a lackluster performance (3 tackles, 0.5 sack). The hashtag #JohnsonTo49ers quickly trended in New Jersey, amassing thousands of posts speculating he’s targeting the 49ers, where defensive coach Robert Saleh, former Jets HC, is now leading.

Johnson, 26, a 2022 draft pick (26th overall), has made his mark with 11 sacks and 100 tackles over 3 seasons. However, the 2025 season has been a disaster for the Jets (0-7 assumed), fueling trade rumors ahead of the November 4, 2025 deadline. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the 49ers, needing an edge rusher after Nick Bosa’s injury, have “made preliminary contact” with the Jets about Johnson, potentially for a 2026 4th-round pick. Saleh, who once worked with Johnson, is reportedly eager for a reunion.

Jets fans erupted on X, with one writing: “You don’t call the 49ers ‘the standard’ when your team is sinking. Johnson is done with us!” Others believe he’s deliberately “dropping signals” to leave the Jets. Meanwhile, 49ers fans are buzzing with excitement over the idea of Johnson joining, especially with the team leading the NFC West at 5-2.

Jets HC Jeff Ulbrich declined to comment on Johnson’s future, saying only: “He’s a warrior. We’re focused on the next game.” But with the Jets struggling and Johnson openly praising the 49ers, the big question lingers: Is Jermaine Johnson just complimenting a rival… or quietly planning a San Francisco escape? As the trade deadline nears, Jets Nation is holding its breath, while 49ers Faithful dream of a blockbuster deal.