Jets Owner Woody Johnson Reportedly Rejected Jerry Jeudy Trade Due To Low Madden Rating | New York Jets

The New York Jets’ difficult 2024 season was marked by unorthodox decisions, including owner Woody Johnson reportedly relying on Madden NFL video game ratings when evaluating players.

According to the Athletic, Johnson vetoed a trade for wide receiver Jerry Jeudy last offseason, citing the player’s low Madden rating. Jeudy was later traded to the Cleveland Browns, where he posted 1,052 receiving yards, fifth in the NFL.

The Jets also signed free agent guard John Simpson, despite Johnson’s initial resistance due to his low in-game “name” rating. Simpson has performed solidly since then, but the team has struggled to post a 4-10 record.

The Athletic cited sources within the organization as saying Johnson’s teenage sons, Brick and Jack, influenced the team’s decisions. The owner has reportedly referenced his opinions in meetings with executives and coaches, often based on online chats and video game metrics.

“When we discuss things, you will hear Woody quoting something that Brick or Jack read online, weighed equally against the opinion of the staff,” an unnamed Jets executive said.

A Jets spokesman denied the sons’ influence, calling their input a “reference point.” However, insiders described instances where Brick and Jack handed out game balls in the locker room, causing discomfort among players and staff.

The dysfunction has reached its peak this season. After a 1-3 start, Johnson reportedly suggested benching quarterback Aaron Rodgers, although the veteran remained the starter. This was followed by midseason firings of head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas.

Rodgers has underperformed and the Jets appear to be on their way to a rebuild. Critics say the team’s reliance on unorthodox input contributed to its difficulties.

“It was the most embarrassing and frightening situation I have ever experienced,” one player said of the atmosphere in the locker room.

The team’s future remains uncertain as it considers moving on from Rodgers and rebuilding its leadership structure.