Introduction
While the contract pursuits of CeeDee Lamb and Brandon Aiyuk have dominated headlines, the New York Jets’ pass-rusher Haason Reddick’s holdout has subtly garnered attention. On Monday, the two-time Pro Bowler officially requested a trade, pushing his situation into the spotlight.
Haason Reddick’s trade request is a crucial development in the NFL landscape. As CBS Sports insider Jonathan Jones reported, “Reddick has requested a trade from the Jets, source says.” With no contract negotiations occurring due to Reddick’s absence from the camp, the trade request has significantly altered the dynamics within the Jets’ camp. This article delves into the potential trade scenarios involving Reddick and another notable pass-rusher, Matthew Judon of the New England Patriots.
Potential Trade Scenarios for Haason Reddick
Arizona Cardinals: A Logical Destination
The Arizona Cardinals emerge as a plausible landing spot for Haason Reddick, given their need for bolstering their pass rush. Here are the details of a potential trade:
- Cardinals Receive: Edge Haason Reddick
- Jets Receive: Conditional 2026 Third-Round Pick
The Cardinals’ pass rush was underwhelming in 2023, with Dennis Gardeck leading the team with a mere six sacks. The need for a formidable pass-rusher like Reddick is evident, especially with B.J. Ojulari sidelined due to an ACL tear. The Cardinals recently considered Carl Lawson, but Reddick would be an even more substantial acquisition.
Familiarity with the System:
– Head coach Jonathan Gannon previously coached Reddick with the Philadelphia Eagles, where Reddick recorded a career-high 16 sacks in 2022. This familiarity could facilitate a seamless transition for Reddick.
Homecoming Aspect:
– Reddick spent the first four seasons of his career with Arizona, making this a potential homecoming that could be appealing for both the player and the franchise.
Cap Space:
– The Cardinals have $31 million in effective cap space, providing them the financial flexibility to offer Reddick the long-term security he seeks.
Atlanta Falcons: Addressing a Long-Standing Issue
The Atlanta Falcons could also be a compelling destination for Reddick. Here’s a breakdown of a possible trade scenario:
- Falcons Receive: Edge Haason Reddick, 2023 Third-Round Pick
- Jets Receive: CB A.J. Terrell
The Falcons have made significant moves this offseason, including acquiring Kirk Cousins to open a lengthy playoff window. However, their pass-rushing capabilities remain a concern, especially after losing top sack producers Calais Campbell and Bud Dupree in free agency.
Reddick’s Impact:
– Adding a younger, dynamic pass-rusher like Reddick could significantly enhance the Falcons’ defensive line.
Jets’ Gain:
– In return, the Jets could acquire cornerback A.J. Terrell, who, despite a dip in performance over the past few seasons, remains a reliable starter. Pairing Terrell with Sauce Gardner could fortify the Jets’ secondary.
Contract Considerations:
– Terrell is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and extending him could be challenging for the Falcons, who have less than $1 million in effective cap space. This trade could provide a mutually beneficial solution for both teams.
Potential Trade Scenarios for Matthew Judon
Chicago Bears: Building a Defensive Powerhouse
Matthew Judon’s situation with the New England Patriots has also attracted interest from multiple teams. The Chicago Bears appear to be potential suitors for Judon. Here’s a potential trade scenario:
- Bears Receive: Edge Matthew Judon
- Patriots Receive: 2025 Fifth-Round Pick, 2026 Fourth-Round Pick
The Bears have shown a willingness to trade for pass-rushing talent, as evidenced by their acquisition of Montez Sweat from the Washington Commanders. With first overall pick Caleb Williams expected to lead the team, the Bears’ defense could benefit from Judon’s presence.
Judon’s Role:
– Adding Judon as a high-end complement to Sweat could elevate the Bears from playoff hopefuls to legitimate NFC North contenders.
Financial Feasibility:
– The Bears have $20.4 million in effective cap space, providing them the means to offer Judon a raise over the $6.5 million he’s currently due.
Detroit Lions: Enhancing a Super Bowl Contender
The Detroit Lions, who came close to reaching the Super Bowl last season, could also make a play for Judon. Here’s a possible trade scenario:
- Lions Receive: Edge Matthew Judon
- Patriots Receive: WR Donovan Peoples-Jones, 2026 Fourth-Round Pick
The Lions could use a high-end pass-rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson. While they have added Marcus Davenport and expect James Houston to return, Judon could provide additional firepower.
Lions’ Offer:
– In return, the Lions could offer Donovan Peoples-Jones, who had a productive 2022 season with the Cleveland Browns under current Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt.
Patriots’ Needs:
– The Patriots, looking to support rookie quarterback Drake Maye, could benefit from bolstering their receiving corps, which was one of the weakest in the league.
FAQs
Why did Haason Reddick request a trade from the Jets?
– Reddick requested a trade due to stalled contract negotiations and his absence from training camp.
Which teams are most likely to trade for Haason Reddick?
– The Arizona Cardinals and Atlanta Falcons are two logical destinations, given their need for a formidable pass-rusher.
What is the current situation with Matthew Judon and the Patriots?
– Judon is in a standoff with the Patriots over a contract extension, with multiple teams showing interest in acquiring him.
How would acquiring Haason Reddick benefit the Cardinals?
– Reddick would provide a significant boost to the Cardinals’ pass rush, reuniting with head coach Jonathan Gannon and returning to a familiar environment.
What could the Jets gain from trading Haason Reddick?
– The Jets could acquire valuable draft picks or a reliable cornerback like A.J. Terrell, enhancing their secondary.
Why might the Bears prefer Matthew Judon over Haason Reddick?
– Judon could be a more cost-effective option for the Bears, who have limited cap space and need a high-end complement to Montez Sweat.
Conclusion
The potential trades involving Haason Reddick and Matthew Judon highlight the dynamic nature of the NFL offseason. Both pass-rushers could significantly impact their new teams, whether it’s the Cardinals bolstering their pass rush with Reddick or the Bears enhancing their defense with Judon. As the regular season approaches, these hypothetical trade scenarios provide intriguing possibilities for teams looking to strengthen their rosters.
