New York Jets and Haason Reddick: Trade Talks Heat Up
In a surprising twist during the NFL owners meetings in Atlanta, the New York Jets have granted holdout pass rusher Haason Reddick permission to seek a trade. This development comes after a period of tension between the player and the organization, which initially resisted his trade request made on August 12, 2024. The move indicates a significant shift in the Jets’ stance, suggesting an eagerness to resolve the ongoing situation with Reddick.
Owner Woody Johnson confirmed the decision on Tuesday, adding that he remains hopeful Reddick could still fulfill his role with the team. Reddick’s new agent, Drew Rosenhaus, met with Jets general manager Joe Douglas just before their match against the Buffalo Bills, indicating that negotiations were underway. Rosenhaus characterized the discussions as "healthy," expressing a preference to keep Reddick in New York.
The Jets’ recent decision to allow Reddick to explore possibilities with other teams comes amid the backdrop of his prolonged absence from team activities, which has resulted in forfeiting approximately $4.8 million in game checks, in addition to $5 million in fines imposed by the NFL. Johnson acknowledged the urgency of the situation, entrusting Rosenhaus to help bridge gaps that have developed between the Jets and Reddick. "If anyone can get Haason out of whatever it is and get him playing, I think it would be better for the young player," Johnson stated.
Reddick, 30, was acquired by the Jets from the Philadelphia Eagles in a trade on March 29. Currently in the final year of his contract, he is seeking an extension that aligns his compensation with top-tier edge rushers in the league. The Jets decided not to renegotiate his contract when they acquired him, maintaining that Reddick indicated he was willing to play under the existing terms at the time of the trade.
Despite his potential, finding a trading partner may prove challenging. Reddick is owed $9.5 million non-guaranteed for the remainder of the season, and he recently declined a one-year proposal from the Jets that would have offered him more than his scheduled base pay of $14.25 million. However, the demand for edge rushers remains high, as evidenced by Reddick’s impressive track record of 50.5 sacks over the past four seasons.
The Jets initially parted with a conditional third-round pick in 2026 to obtain Reddick, viewing him as a vital addition to their championship-caliber defense. After joining the team, Reddick expressed enthusiasm, stating he was "happy" to be a Jet. Unfortunately, this positivity has dimmed as he has yet to participate in team functions since the spring, further complicating his future with the organization.
As the Jets navigate this turbulent period, both Reddick’s talents on the field and the financial implications of his contract remain central to the ongoing dialogue. The hope is that clarity can be achieved soon, whether that comes via a trade or a resolution that allows Reddick to rejoin the Jets and contribute to their defensive efforts.