The New York Jets were previously mentioned as a potential destination for Jerry Jeudy prior to his trade to the Cleveland Browns in the offseason, but owner Woody Johnson reportedly blocked the move. The reason for this decision is quite surprising.
A report from Zach Rosenblatt, Dianna Russini, and Mike Silver in The Athletic revealed that Johnson was deterred from acquiring Jeudy from the Denver Broncos due to his dissatisfaction with Jeudy’s player rating in the “Madden NFL” video game, despite being 77 years old.
Johnson apparently believed that Jeudy’s Madden rating was insufficient to warrant the trade demands. This isn’t the first time Johnson has factored in “Madden” ratings in his decisions.
According to sources, Johnson’s teenage sons, Brick and Jack, play a role in shaping his choices and keep him informed about “Madden.” He was also reportedly hesitant about signing free-agent guard John Simpson because of Simpson’s low “awareness” rating in the game.
The piece underscores various ways Johnson has allegedly allowed his sons to play a part in the dysfunction at 1 Jets Drive. Brick and Jack are said to have access to the Jets’ locker room and have been overheard making negative comments about players. Former general manager Joe Douglas has mentioned that he has to “answer to a teenager,” highlighting the impact their input has on team decisions.
This season, Jeudy has made a significant impact for the Browns, recording 70 receptions for 1,052 yards, showing better performance than he had in four seasons with Denver.
There was a previous report suggesting Douglas was interested in trading for Jeudy, but Johnson intervened, with no clear reason given. Jeudy’s reaction to that report was notably significant.
