The New York Jets‘ handling of Haason Reddick’s trade request quickly backfired, leaving general manager Joe Douglas isolated on Monday afternoon.
The Philadelphia Eagles were reluctant to pay Reddick after he recorded 27 sacks over the last two seasons. As a result, they traded him to the Jets for a conditional third-round pick this spring.
However, the Jets broke a cardinal rule by not securing a deal with Reddick before the trade, despite him seeking more money in the final year of his contract. Reddick responded by skipping OTAs and the start of training camp, eventually requesting a trade on Monday.
Douglas issued a firm response, stating that Reddick would not be traded and that he would be fined per the CBA if he didn’t report. With head coach Robert Saleh and Douglas under pressure to succeed this season—especially with Aaron Rodgers on the roster—the Jets are in a tough spot. A lengthy holdout by Reddick could derail their playoff hopes.
If Reddick holds out past Week 6, the Jets would retain his contract rights into 2025, keeping him from free agency. However, this scenario could severely impact the team’s postseason chances, particularly if injuries pile up on the defensive line.
Critics, including Mike Florio and Nick Wright, have pointed out the Jets’ mishandling of the situation, questioning the competence of the front office. Fans on social media have echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that the Jets should have secured a deal with Reddick earlier, rather than allowing the situation to deteriorate.
Never ever ever trade for a player who wants a new contract without first working out a new contract. Ever. Never.
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) August 12, 2024