Trade Winds Blow: Jets Give Haason Reddick Green Light to Seek New Team
In a stunning reversal, the New York Jets have granted holdout pass rusher Haason Reddick permission to explore trade opportunities, owner Woody Johnson revealed at the NFL owners meetings in Atlanta. This dramatic shift in stance comes after the Jets initially refused to entertain Reddick’s trade request, made on August 12.
A Change of Heart
The turn of events follows a meeting between Reddick’s new agent, Drew Rosenhaus, and Jets general manager Joe Douglas on Monday. Rosenhaus described the discussion as “healthy dialogue,” expressing his preference to keep Reddick with the Jets. However, it appears the team is now willing to listen to offers from other teams in the hopes of reigniting Reddick’s passion for playing – and getting him back on the field.
A Complex Situation
Reddick, 30, was acquired by the Jets in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles on March 29. With his contract set to expire, he’s demanding an extension that puts him on par with the league’s top edge rushers. The Jets, however, claim Reddick initially agreed to play under his existing contract, which has led to a stalemate. As a result, he’s skipped all team events since the spring, forfeiting $4.8 million in game checks and $5 million in NFL-mandated fines.
The Challenge Ahead
Finding a trading partner won’t be easy, given Reddick’s $9.5 million (nonguaranteed) price tag for the remainder of the season. He recently rejected a one-year proposal from the Jets that would’ve increased his base pay to over $14.25 million. On the other hand, there’s a strong demand for edge rushers, and Reddick’s impressive 50.5 sacks in the previous four seasons make him a highly coveted asset.
A Bridge to Nowhere?
Johnson is pinning his hopes on Rosenhaus to broker a deal that brings Reddick back to the Jets. “He knows what he’s doing,” Johnson said of Rosenhaus. “If anyone can get Haason out of whatever it is and get him playing, I think it would be better for the young player.” But with the clock ticking, it remains to be seen if Rosenhaus can work his magic and find a solution that satisfies all parties involved.
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