The owner of the New York Jets, Woody Johnson, has allegedly refused a trade due to a player’s rating in a video game, as reported by The Athletic. This move overtures professional sports and digital entertainment in an unexpected cross-eye and has left the fans and analysts basically questioning the priorities of decision-making within the organization.
A Novel Method of Rating
The alleged incident refers to an unnamed player who had been years ago identified by the Jets as a target for a trade that would fortify the team’s roster. Cited from The Athletic, there were positive discussions between the Jets and the current team the player belongs to, but Johnson abruptly ended it because the athlete has a low rating in the Madden NFL video game.
The move has not gone well with the sports fraternity since the ratings of video games are deemed as entertainment ratings and not a real indicator of player value.
Inside the Decision
”According to an undercover source quoted in The Athletic, Woody Johnson attaches high values to brand matching and image issue.” ‘He considered that negative Madden rating could hurt the team image, particularly with the young generation that involves themselves with the game frequently’.
Of course, ratings applied to video games depend on on-field results and do not reflect any player’s real proficiency, dedication, or skill in development. A large number of fans fumed on social media, stating that this trivializes the matter of constructing a contending NFL team.
Jets Fans React
Yearning for better results from the Jets team, the fans could not hold back and started voicing their sadness or lack of approval over the team. Well, first we can’t settle the issue regarding the quarterback and now we are allowing Madden to choose our team. Next thing you know they’ll be getting all their Iowa Hawkeyes fantasy football trades. tweeted one frustrated fan.
Others, however, saw the humor in the situation, joking that perhaps the team should consult FIFA or NBA 2K for cross-sport advice.
NFL Analysts Weigh In
Analysts at the NFL were less amused, as they believe the incident reflects deeper problems within the organizational culture of the Jets. “This is a team that needs to focus on performance and strategy, not video game ratings,” sports commentator Colin Cowherd said.
What’s Next for the Jets?
With the Jets continuing to ride a difficult season, this move represents an unorthodox approach to team management. Whether it is indicative of innovative thinking or misplaced priorities, only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Jets’ trade policies have opened the discussion on where the line should be drawn between entertainment and professional sports.
