New York's offseason acquisition of Haason Reddick seemed to be an example of a team rich in pass-rushing talent accruing more wealth.
Months later, it appears that stock has tanked. Reddick has held out of Jets training camp since it began last month due to a contract dispute and now wants to be traded, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on Monday.
The trade request comes as a result of a failure to come together on a new contract, or even convince Reddick to show up for camp, per Rapoport. It appears the Jets aren't budging, either, digging in by quickly releasing a statement on the matter Monday afternoon.
"We have informed Haason that we will not trade him, that he is expected to be here with his teammates, and that he will continue to be fined per the CBA if he does not report," Jets general manager Joe Douglas said. "Since the trade discussions back in March we have been clear, direct and consistent with our position. Our focus will remain on the guys we have here as we prepare for the regular season."
Reddick, set to earn $14.25 million in the final year of his contract, originally landed in New York as a result of his discontent with his existing deal, which prompted the Eagles to seek a trade partner to move him. They found one in the Jets, who were happy to send the Eagles a conditional 2026 third-round pick for the 29-year-old edge rusher.
With two Pro Bowls and 50.5 sacks to his name over the last four seasons, it seemed like an easy decision for the Jets, who replaced the departed Bryce Huff with a proven veteran capable of changing a game with his pass-rushing ability. Months later, they've come to realize money remained a huge factor for Reddick, and after failing to come close on an agreement, they might be forced to follow in the Eagles' footsteps.
Reddick's career began as an out-of-position inside linebacker with the Cardinals, who waited until his fourth (and final) season with the team to move him into a role that suited him best. Reddick responded accordingly, posting 12.5 sacks in a contract year with Arizona before leaving for a one-year stint with the Panthers, where he again excelled, logging 11 sacks. He's been nothing but consistent since then, and only departed Philadelphia because the Eagles didn't seem to be too interested in paying him.
As he approaches his 30th birthday in September, Reddick knows now is the time to cash in on his earning power. In order to make that happen, he might have to report to the Jets before long, or else face millions in fines without a long-term contract in hand.
