With Week 1 fast approaching for the New York Jets, anticipation is high as fans await to see what the team can achieve if they stay healthy.
The Jets made several offseason moves to strengthen their roster. Although Aaron Rodgers’ injury last year was a significant setback, it exposed areas the team needed to address for this season.
While the offense drew much of the focus due to last year’s struggles, the defense also underwent changes.
Bryce Huff departed in free agency to join the Philadelphia Eagles, prompting the Jets to trade for Eagles pass rusher Haason Reddick.
The move to acquire Reddick was aimed at replacing Huff’s production. Reddick, dissatisfied with his contract situation in Philadelphia, became available, leading the Jets to secure him for a conditional third-round pick.
The Jets anticipated that Reddick would seek a new contract with them, but negotiations have yet to yield a deal.
With the season almost here, it seems unlikely that an agreement will be reached in time.
Recently, Alex Ballantine of Bleacher Report discussed the possibility of New York trading the star edge rusher, identifying the Baltimore Ravens as a strong potential fit.
“The idea of trading Haason Reddick has to feel more appealing to the New York Jets the longer his contract saga drags on ahead of the season … The Ravens should be on the short list of teams who would be willing to do that. They are coming off of a great season in 2023, but they have a clear need for an edge rusher. Perhaps exchanging an unproven young player like David Ojabo for someone who can help right away would be appealing.”
While trading Reddick within the conference to a contender like the Ravens wouldn’t be ideal for the Jets, they might be inclined to offload him and get something in return.
If Reddick ends up sitting out or being traded, the Jets could face pass-rushing challenges.
Last season, Huff led the team with 10 sacks, and Reddick was brought in to fill that void after posting four consecutive seasons with double-digit sacks.
Given that Huff was the team’s sack leader last season, his departure without a solid replacement, depending on Reddick’s situation, could be a significant concern for the Jets.
Although they would prefer to have Reddick on the field for Week 1, there’s no denying he would be a great fit for the Ravens if New York decides to trade him.