Jerry Jeudy dismisses rumors that Jets owner Woody Johnson rejected trade based on Madden ratings

Browns WR Jerry Jeudy dismissed rumors that Jets owner Woody Johnson rejected a potential trade for him based on his rating in EA Sports' Madden NFL video game. The story emerged as part of a larger exposé by The Athletic on the Jets' front office operations.

Johnson, the Jets owner since 2000, reportedly sought input from his teenage sons Brick and Jack for football-related decisions. This practice extended beyond Jeudy's case. Johnson also reportedly questioned signing guard John Simpson due to his low "awareness" rating in the game.

When questioned by Daryl Ruiter of 92.3 The Fan on Thursday, Jerry Jeudy responded with skepticism about the report. His comments came during a season where he ranks fifth in the NFL in receiving yards.

NFL: Kansas City Chiefs at Cleveland Browns - Source: Imagn

"To be honest, I don't believe it. I think that's fake news," Jerry Jeudy said. "For real, why would somebody look at Madden ratings? Be real. I don't think that's real, but it is funny."

The Jets defended the involvement of Johnson's sons through a statement to The Athletic. The organization maintained that while such information served as "a reference point," it wasn't the deciding factor in executive decisions. One unnamed Jets executive revealed that Woody would cite his sons' online research during departmental discussions.

Jerry Jeudy thriving in Cleveland after trade speculation

NFL: Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers - Source: Imagn

The fifth-year receiver has excelled with the Browns since his March trade from Denver. His connection with quarterback Jameis Winston proved particularly productive. Winston targeted him 65 times across seven games, resulting in 47 catches, 769 yards and three touchdowns.

"I'm glad that I'm here," Jerry Jeudy said. "I'm glad my Madden rating was low. Yeah, got me here."

His current stats of 70 catches on 111 targets for 1,052 yards and four touchdowns represent career highs across multiple categories.

The controversy sparked broader discussions about the Jets' organizational structure. An unnamed player described a post-victory scene where Brick Johnson handed out a game ball as "the most awkward, cringe-worthy, brutal experience." Meanwhile, Jeudy continues to showcase his talents in Cleveland, expressing gratitude toward Winston and the coaching staff for his breakthrough season.