Just when it seemed that things couldn’t get any worse for the New York Jets in Week 16, news emerged about the Cleveland Browns’ top wide receiver responding to rumors of the Jets’ interest in trading for him in 2024.
On Thursday, The Athletic released an article co-written by Dianna Russini, Zach Rosenblatt, and Michael Silver ahead of the NFL’s Week 16 games, detailing the Jets’ profound dysfunction under owner Woody Johnson. The piece reveals the deteriorating relationship between Johnson and former general manager Joe Douglas, as well as the surprising involvement of Johnson’s teenage sons in team decisions. While the article does a great job of highlighting the Jets’ front office incompetence over the years, it also sparked notable discussion about the Browns’ successful acquisition of Jerry Jeudy from the Denver Broncos for a fifth and sixth-round pick. The Jets had contemplated trading for Jeudy, but Johnson reportedly hesitated after learning about his low Madden rating.
Following the article’s release, Jeudy humorously reacted on social media, referencing Chad Ochocinco, who is known for rating players in the Madden franchise, suggesting that Johnson’s decision not to pursue him stemmed from that low rating.
Ultimately, the trade worked in favor of the Browns, as Jeudy has enjoyed a breakout season, surpassing 1,000 receiving yards in 2024 and showing outstanding performance, including a memorable game where he recorded 235 yards and a touchdown in a return to Denver. Despite the Browns’ 3-11 record, Jeudy appears content with his situation, and it’s clear that the Browns are pleased with the deal, which cost them only a backup cornerback and a backup running back. Jeudy has found a fresh start on a team that seems far less dysfunctional than the Jets.
