Breaking Down the Tyson Campbell Trade Between Jacksonville and Cleveland
Greg Newsome’s Second Act Begins in Jacksonville
Tyson Campbell trade shakes up the NFL as Jacksonville swaps him for Greg Newsome II, giving both cornerbacks a fresh start in new defensive systems.
The Tyson Campbell trade between the Jacksonville Jaguars and Cleveland Browns has shaken up the AFC, signaling fresh starts for both cornerbacks. The NFL loves surprises. This week, two AFC teams pulled off one of the most unexpected trades of the season. Late Wednesday night, the Jacksonville Jaguars sent Tyson Campbell and a 2026 seventh-round pick to the Cleveland Browns. In return, they received Greg Newsome II and a 2026 sixth-round pick.
This was not a routine deal for depth players. It was a swap of two starting-caliber cornerbacks. Each was once seen as a future star. Both were early draft picks. Both showed promise early in their careers. And both have struggled lately to sustain that level of play.
By swapping Campbell and Newsome, both teams sent a clear message: a new environment might unlock what’s been missing.
Trade Breakdown
To Cleveland Browns: Tyson Campbell + 2026 7th-round pick
To Jacksonville Jaguars: Greg Newsome II + 2026 6th-round pick
The draft pick swap is small. Jacksonville moves up a round in 2026, while Cleveland moves down. The real focus is the player-for-player exchange. Both were top-40 draft selections. Both were expected to anchor their secondaries.
Cleveland is betting on Campbell’s physical traits. Jacksonville believes Newsome’s recent dip is fixable with the right system in place.
Why Jacksonville Made the Move
Jacksonville didn’t decide overnight to trade Tyson Campbell. His 2022 breakout season raised expectations. Since then, he has battled injuries and inconsistency. His play has plateaued over the last two years.
Greg Newsome II offers upside and a better fit. The former first-rounder had a strong 2023 season in Cleveland. He excelled in press coverage and showed the flexibility to play both outside and in the slot. His 2024 season fell short of expectations, but Jacksonville’s coaches believe they can bring him back to that earlier level.
The Jaguars’ secondary has struggled to find stability. Injuries forced constant lineup changes. The defense gave up too many big plays. Newsome brings athleticism, physicality, and experience in multiple coverages. Jacksonville wants to play a more aggressive style, and he fits that vision.
The deal also makes financial sense. Both players are still on rookie contracts. Jacksonville gets the chance to evaluate Newsome without a significant cap hit.
Tyson Campbell’s Fresh Start in Cleveland
For Campbell, this trade changes everything. The Jaguars drafted him 33rd overall in 2021. He quickly became one of the top young corners in the AFC. His 2022 season was outstanding. Opposing quarterbacks posted just a 58.3 passer rating when throwing his way. PFF ranked him among the league’s top 10 in coverage.
Since then, the story has shifted. Injuries slowed him down. His consistency dipped. In 2024, he earned a 62.9 PFF grade, 103rd out of 222 qualifying corners. His coverage grade fell to 63.9. He gave up more explosive plays than in his standout year.
Even so, Campbell’s tools remain elite. At 6-foot-1 with long arms and great speed, he’s built for press-man coverage. That style fits perfectly with Cleveland’s defense. The Browns rely on physical corners who can jam receivers and disrupt timing.
Cleveland has dealt with its own secondary issues this season. Injuries and uneven play created openings. By adding Campbell, they hope to stabilize the outside corner spot. It’s a calculated bet that new coaching and a different system can reignite his career.
Campbell vs. Newsome: By the Numbers
Player 2024 PFF Overall Coverage Rank (CBs) Best Season
Tyson Campbell 62.9 63.9 103 / 222 2022 – Elite coverage
Greg Newsome II 52.2 54.0 177 / 222 2023 – 75.8 overall
Neither player stood out in 2024. But their past performances show why both teams believe in their potential.
Who Won the Trade?
Analysts gave a slight early edge to Jacksonville. They moved up in the draft and acquired a player who performed better more recently. PFF analysts also noted that Newsome’s press skills align better with Jacksonville’s defensive strategy.
Still, this trade has true win-win potential. If Campbell returns to his 2022 form, Cleveland will have a reliable starter opposite Denzel Ward and Martin Emerson Jr. Jacksonville is banking on Newsome regaining his 2023 level and shoring up a shaky secondary.
Strategic Impact
For the Browns:
Cleveland built its defense on physical corners and a fierce pass rush. Campbell’s size and press ability give them more flexibility. He can match up with big receivers on the outside. Emerson and Ward can adjust their roles accordingly. Campbell is still on a rookie deal, allowing Cleveland to evaluate him without financial pressure.
For the Jaguars:
Jacksonville leans on zone concepts and versatility. Newsome’s quickness and ability to move inside and outside suit that approach. His style differs from Campbell’s but may fit better against AFC South receivers. The slight draft pick upgrade is a smart bonus.
Player Perspectives
Neither player has made major public comments since the trade. However, reports from insiders suggest that both view it as a fresh start. Campbell joins a defense with playoff ambitions and a strong identity. Newsome steps into a secondary that offers him a clear role and a chance to re-establish himself as a starter.
For both, this is more than a transaction. It’s an opportunity to reset their careers and prove they can still make a difference.
Final Thoughts
This trade stands out not because of superstar names or blockbuster picks, but because of what it represents. Two franchises examined talented, underperforming players and opted to trade potential for a better fit.
Cleveland is betting on Campbell’s physical upside and a new environment. Jacksonville is betting on Newsome’s recent success and schematic fit. Both teams gave something up. Both gained something meaningful in return.
If Campbell thrives in Cleveland, the Browns may have found a key defensive piece. If Newsome shines in Jacksonville, the Jaguars could look brilliant in hindsight.
One thing is clear: this deal gives both young cornerbacks a new chapter and both teams a chance to improve without mortgaging the future.