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The idea of trading disgruntled edge-rusher Haason Reddick was a nonstarter for New York Jets owner Woody Johnson, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Schefter reported Sunday the Jets agreed to a restructured contract with Reddick to end his holdout. He cited a source who said Johnson was “very involved in working this out” and reported the owner “never had any intention of trading Reddick.”
Johnson spoke about Reddick’s holdout in his first media call after firing head coach Robert Saleh. He told reporters the Jets were ready to welcome the two-time Pro Bowler to the team and had a clear message for him:
Jets Videos @snyjets
“Haason, get in your car. Drive down 95 and come to the New York Jets. We can meet you and give you an escort right into the building.”
Woody Johnson with a message for Haason Reddick: pic.twitter.com/alZV3LBntH
During the NFL’s fall meeting this week, Johnson also sounded encouraged by Reddick’s change of representation. The veteran defender hired Drew Rosenhaus as his new lead agent, and Johnson said he thought Rosenhaus would be able to make a compelling case for bringing the holdout to an end.
While this is clearly the outcome New York always wanted, the team might’ve undermined itself slightly at the negotiating table thanks to the two big moves it executed this month.
By firing Saleh and then acquiring wide receiver Davante Adams, the Jets showed they’re still aiming to win a Super Bowl despite their 2-4 start. Given their short-term priorities, they weren’t going to let Reddick sit at home all season.
Zach Gelb @ZachGelb
.@ProFootballTalk nailed it on Woody Johnson trying to save face on the terrible start to the Jets season by trading for Adams and then finding a way to get it done with Reddick. https://t.co/zv5RmBfW3C
Johnson’s diplomatic approach to the situations seemingly raises the odds of Reddick getting a long-term extension from the Jets if he plays well enough. Rosenhaus told Schefter that’s the continued aim.
Reddick now has 11 games with New York to rebuild his value.
