In a surprising move, New York Jets owner Woody Johnson made a public appeal to absent linebacker Haason Reddick, urging him to join the team amidst his ongoing contract dispute. This unusual gesture came on the same day Johnson announced the firing of head coach Robert Saleh.
When questioned about Reddick’s prolonged absence, Johnson expressed his willingness to welcome the Pro Bowl edge rusher back to the team with open arms. “He’ll find a very welcoming locker room, and he’ll fit right in,” Johnson assured. However, he emphasized that Reddick needs to take the first step and report to the team’s facility.
Johnson then took on a persuasive tone, directly addressing Reddick. “Haason, get in your car, drive down I-95, and come to the New York Jets. We’ll meet you and give you an escort right into the building. You’ll love it here, feel welcome, and accomplish great things with us.”
Reddick, who resides in Camden, New Jersey, about 90 minutes from the Jets’ training facility, has been holding out for a new contract. He was acquired in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles in March but has skipped all team events, incurring over $8 million in fines. With one year remaining on his contract, Reddick stands to earn a nonguaranteed base salary of $14.25 million. However, he has already forfeited $4.2 million of that salary by missing the first five games.
The stalemate began when Reddick rejected a long-term offer at the time of the trade, expecting further negotiations. The Jets, on the other hand, claim Reddick reneged on a promise to play under his existing contract. The team traded a conditional 2026 third-round pick to acquire him.
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