“We informed Haason that we will not trade him, that he should remain here with his teammates and that he will continue to be penalized under the CBA if he does not report,” Jets general manager Joe Douglas said. “We have been clear, direct and consistent in our position since trade talks in March. Our focus will continue to be on the guys we have here as we prepare for the regular season.”
Reddick, who was set to make $14.25 million in the final year of his contract, originally landed in New York because he was unhappy with his existing deal, prompting the Eagles to seek a trade partner to move him. They found one in the Jets, who happily sent the Eagles a conditional 2026 third-round pick for the 29-year-old edge rusher.
With two Pro Bowls and 50.5 sacks over the past four seasons, it seemed like an easy decision for the Jets to replace departed Bryce Huff with a proven veteran who can change a game with his pass rush skills. Months later, they’ve realized that money is still a big factor for Reddick, and after failing to agree on a deal, they may be forced to follow in the Eagles’ footsteps.
Reddick’s career began as an inside linebacker with the Cardinals, who waited until his fourth (and final) season with the team to move him to a role he was most comfortable with. Reddick responded accordingly, recording 12.5 sacks in a contract year with Arizona before moving to the Panthers for a year, where he again excelled, recording 11 sacks. He has been consistent since then, only leaving Philadelphia because the Eagles didn’t seem all that interested in paying him.
As he turns 30 in September, Reddick knows now is the time to capitalize on his earning potential. To do that, he may have to report to the Jets soon or face millions in fines without a long-term contract in his pocket.
