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The Madden NFL series is a popular football video game franchise developed by EA Sports, named after legendary coach John Madden. It simulates the experience of playing in the NFL, allowing players to control teams, compete in matches, and manage franchises. A key feature of the game is its player ratings system, which assigns numerical values (ranging from 0 to 99) to athletes based on their skills and performance.
These ratings assess various attributes like speed, strength, agility, and awareness, influencing how players perform on the field. The ratings are updated annually to reflect real-life player performances, making them a significant factor in gameplay and decision-making within the sport.
A recent report from The Athletic has cast a critical spotlight on New York Jets owner Woody Johnson, alleging that some of his front office decisions have been influenced by unconventional factors-specifically, the "Madden" video game franchise. According to the article, which cites multiple anonymous sources, Johnson reportedly rejected a trade for star wide receiver Jerry Jeudydue to his in-game rating in the popular football simulation.
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The Jets were apparently close to finalizing a deal with the Denver Broncos for Jeudy, now a standout player for the Cleveland Browns. However, the report claims that Johnson intervened, with then-General Manager Joe Douglas explaining to Denver that the trade was nixed because of Jeudy's perceived abilities in "Madden." Interestingly, Jeudy has since gone on to enjoy the best season of his career with the Browns, suring 1,000 receiving yards for the first time.
Madden drama in the Jets' front office
This wasn't the only instance where "Madden" seemingly played a role in decision-making. The report also alleges that Johnson opposed g free agent guard John Simpson due to his low awareness rating in the game.
Such decisions have reportedly left some within the Jets organization frustrated, with one source suggesting that Johnson's teenage sons, Brick and Jack, may have influenced their father's judgment. "It felt like we were answering to a couple of kids," one insider shared.
The allegations offer a rare glimpse into the inner workings of an NFL franchise, raising questions about how unconventional influences might impact professional sports organizations. For now, it seems many within the Jets' ranks are left wondering whether their path forward can align with their owner's vision-or lack thereof.