On Thursday, The Athletic published an article detailing the dysfunction surrounding the New York Jets. One of the article’s main points surrounded a potential trade for current Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy.
Before Jeudy was dealt to Cleveland by the Denver Broncos, New York apparently was deep in discussions with Denver on a deal involving the receiver. When the deal was close to its completion, it was stopped for an odd reason, per The Athletic: Jets owner Woody Johnson did not think Jeudy’s “Madden NFL” rating was high enough. Yes, a real-life deal was allegedly nixed because of a player’s video game rating.
Ochocinco, also known as Chad Johnson, is a ratings adjuster for “Madden.” The six-time Pro Bowler responded quickly to Jeudy by saying it’s a “good thing” he did not end up in New York, as the wideout is “shining” now.
It is surreal how the Jets, even when they are not on the field, create some of the most creative and wacky headlines. Most people would not even dream about a video game influencing real-life football decisions; however, it is just another day in the life of the New York Jets.
Jeudy and Johnson made light of the situation, and they are able to do so with the Browns’ receiver enjoying a career year. And while the Jets are likely better off with Davante Adams, the scenario still highlights what is currently wrong with the organization.
The 2024 season is, mercifully, almost over for the Jets. But with three games remaining, there is still plenty of room left for shenanigans. It remains to be seen if New York will up the ante once again.
