In a stunning revelation from a story published in The Athletic, it was reported that New York Jets owner Woody Johnson vetoed a trade for wide receiver Jerry Jeudy based on his Madden NFL video game ratings. The bizarre decision adds another chapter to the Jets’ long history of dysfunction, raising questions about the franchise’s leadership and ability to navigate the complexities of the NFL.
The Vetoed Trade
The incident reportedly began last February when Johnson, general manager Joe Douglas, and other team decision-makers were evaluating potential offseason acquisitions. As discussions progressed about trading for then-Denver Broncos wide receiver Jerry Jeudy, Johnson took it upon himself to do some “research” on Jeudy’s value. According to sources, Johnson relied on Jeudy’s Madden NFL player ratings as part of his evaluation process.
Negotiations between the Jets and the Broncos were heating up, and the deal was nearing completion. However, the Jets abruptly withdrew from the trade after Johnson expressed his disapproval, citing Jeudy’s subpar Madden rating as a reason to halt talks. The Broncos ultimately traded Jeudy to the Cleveland Browns, where he has since revitalized his career, surpassing the 1,000-yard receiving mark for the first time and delivering standout performances, including a 200-yard game against Denver.
Fallout for the Jets
This decision epitomizes a series of missteps that have plagued the Jets, who are now on their way to missing the playoffs for the 14th straight season—the longest active drought in the NFL. The season has already seen sweeping changes, with head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas being fired midseason. The Jets are now 4-10, and their marquee acquisition, quarterback Aaron Rodgers, is reportedly disillusioned with the franchise after leaving the Green Bay Packers, a perennial contender.
Rodgers, who joined the Jets hoping to lead them back to playoff relevancy, must be questioning his decision as the team has descended further into turmoil. Instead of providing him with the necessary weapons, such as Jeudy, the Jets were forced to trade valuable assets for another receiver, Davante Adams, to compensate for their offensive deficiencies. Yet, the damage had already been done.
What Could Have Been
The addition of Jerry Jeudy could have created a formidable duo with wideout Garrett Wilson, giving Rodgers the type of playmakers he thrived with in Green Bay. Jeudy’s resurgence with the Browns has only highlighted what the Jets missed out on, reinforcing the perception that the organization is directionless under Johnson’s ownership.
The Jets’ struggles are not new, as the franchise has cycled through numerous head coaches and general managers over the past two decades. The firing of Saleh marks the third coaching change since 2018, with Todd Bowles and Adam Gase preceding him. Despite these changes, the Jets have failed to develop consistent offensive talent, relying heavily on defensive-minded hires like Saleh, Rex Ryan, and Bowles. This conservative approach has left the team behind in a league increasingly dominated by dynamic offenses.
The Path Forward
For the Jets to reverse their fortunes, they must hire a forward-thinking general manager and head coach who can build a balanced roster and identify long-term solutions at quarterback. Whether Rodgers stays or moves on, the Jets face tough decisions regarding their roster and the upcoming draft. Currently, the Jets are out of reach of top quarterback prospects like Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward, so they must explore creative ways to address their deficiencies.
The organization also needs to rein in Johnson’s involvement in football operations. While his passion for the team is clear, relying on Madden ratings to evaluate players undermines the credibility of the front office. It casts doubt on the Jets’ ability to compete at the highest level. Stability and professionalism are desperately needed for a franchise that has become a punchline in NFL circles.
A Franchise at a Crossroads
The Jets are at a critical juncture. With teams like the Detroit Lions and Cincinnati Bengals proving that long-suffering franchises can succeed, the Jets must seize the opportunity to reshape their future. This begins with getting leadership decisions right in the offseason. Hiring a competent general manager and head coach and a clear plan for the quarterback position could finally set the team on the right path.
For now, the Jets remain dysfunctional, with stories like the Jeudy trade fiasco as a microcosm of their struggles. As fans watch other teams turn their fortunes around, they wonder when their franchise will do the same.
