The ongoing conflict between star linebacker Haason Reddick and the New York Jets has become a major topic in the NFL.
Reddick, a talented pass rusher, turned down the team’s one-year contract offer, which was designed to help him regain money lost during his holdout.
As the standoff continues, it could have long-term consequences for Reddick and the Jets.
- Haason Reddick rejected a one-year contract offer from the Jets, missing out on millions of dollars.
- His holdout is costing him considerable money in fines and game checks every week.
- If he doesn’t report by Week 13, Reddick’s contract may extend into 2025, repeating the current situation.
Why Did Reddick Reject the Jets’ Offer?
Haason Reddick surprised many when he refused to sign a one-year deal with the Jets earlier this season.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport explained that the offer included a higher salary, which would have allowed Reddick to recover the money he lost due to his holdout.
But Reddick declined, raising questions about his motives.
There is no end in sight for Haason Reddick. But early in the season, it appeared his holdout would end.
The #Jets and his agents were negotiating a 1-year deal to allow him to make far more than he was originally set to make. He turned it down.
Story: https://t.co/XmSSU8DcFs
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 13, 2024
By missing games, Reddick is losing about $792,000 per week, and in just five games, he has lost more than $12 million.
It’s been a costly summer holdout for “#Jets” LB Haason Reddick.
Fines/Forfeitures ($5.07M)
Minicamp: $101,716
Training Camp: $2,050,000
Preseason: $2,375,000
Workout Bonus: $250,000
Discretionary Fine: $300,000He’ll forfeit an additional $791,666 per regular season week…
— Spotrac (@spotrac) September 5, 2024
On top of that, the fines from his holdout are adding up.
Reddick is likely holding out for a multi-year contract that would secure his future beyond this season, but that has its risks.
Reddick is required to report by Week 13 if he wants to avoid having his contract extended into 2025.
If he doesn’t show up, the Jets will still own his rights next season, keeping him in the same situation he’s in now.
So, as we can see, this adds pressure on Reddick to make a decision soon.
Could Reddick Retire Instead of Playing for the Jets?
Another surprising twist is that Reddick might retire if he doesn’t get the deal he wants.
Rapoport suggested that Reddick could walk away from football entirely rather than accept a contract he doesn’t feel is fair.
For a player with multiple Pro Bowl appearances, this would be a shocking move, at the very least.
Reddick seems focused on getting a longer, more secure contract that would make him one of the top-paid pass rushers in the NFL.
However, the Jets are more interested in a short-term solution. They want Reddick to play out this year’s contract and become a free agent in 2025.
And Jets owner Woody Johnson has made it clear that Reddick is welcome to return whenever he’s ready.
In a recent press conference, Johnson urged Reddick to come back, saying, “Haason, get in your car, drive down (I)-95 and come to the New York Jets, and we can meet you and give you an escort right in the building and you’ll fit right in. You’re going to love it here and you’re going to feel welcome and you’re going to accomplish great things with us.”
“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
— Jets Videos (@snyjets) October 8, 2024
How Is This Holdout Affecting the Jets?
Reddick’s holdout has also caused problems for the Jets.
With a 2-3 record, the team could use Reddick’s defensive strength on the field.
The Jets’ coaches built the defense around Reddick’s abilities, so without him, the team is struggling to perform at its best.
And the longer Reddick stays away, the harder it is for the Jets to reach their full potential this season.
Additionally, the holdout complicates the possibility of trading Reddick to another team.
If Reddick isn’t willing to sign with the Jets, it’s unlikely he would agree to play for another team under a similar contract.
As the Week 13 deadline approaches, the pressure is on Reddick to decide.
If he doesn’t report by then, his contract will extend into 2025, and the current situation will repeat itself.
Whether he holds out for a multi-year contract, chooses to retire, or comes back to play, his decision will greatly impact his future and the Jets.
