Ex-Jets GM links historic NFL trade to LeBron James after tense incident puts former Browns star's career at risk

In the realm of sports, few names command the same respect and recognition as LeBron James . While he flourished as the Cavaliers' cornerstone, NFL receiver Braylon Edwards navigated a path marked by triumph and turmoil. Their stories intertwine in a cautionary tale about the high stakes of rivalry and the repercussions of crossing influential figures. As Edwards learned, in the world of professional sports, loyalty and reputation can be as fragile as they are vital.

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The Cost of crossing LeBron James


LeBron James may spend nine years in Los Angeles if he completes his contract, but Cleveland will always be home. As the Cavaliers' first overall pick, he was seen as 'The Chosen One,' becoming essential to the franchise and community. However, crossing him was a costly mistake—something NFL receiver Braylon Edwards learned the hard way.


While LeBron thrived in Cleveland, Braylon Edwards, a standout WR for the Browns, gained fame with 16 touchdowns in a season, drawing comparisons to Randy Moss. His career took a hit after a nightclub incident led to a trade to the Jets.


This incident became a favorite tale for then-Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum. After striking a man connected to LeBron's friend, Edwards was traded just two days later. “Braylon Edwards that night gets into a little scuffle with LeBron James’ friends. Eric Mangini calls me the next morning. Braylon Edwards is a Jet, and the rest is history,” Tannenbaum recounted.


Edwards helped the Jets reach back-to-back AFC Championship Games but never won a Super Bowl. He was later traded to the 49ers but returned to the Jets, finishing his best season there with 7 touchdowns and 904 yards in 2010.



The dual narratives of LeBron James and Braylon Edwards


Braylon Edwards’ behavior with the Cleveland Browns sparked unrest, particularly after the October 5 brawl with Givens. LeBron James called the receiver “childish” for the incident, emphasizing the disparity in their sizes: “My friend is 130 pounds. It’s like hitting one of my kids. It doesn’t make sense,” he told ESPN. (via: EssentiallySports)


Years later, Edwards shared his side on the D.A Show, claiming he was “jumped” by four men that night. He recalled having a friendship with LeBron prior to the fallout: “We’d say, ‘Hey, how are you doing?’ I paid for his tab sometimes, he paid for mine.” Their friendship ultimately crumbled due to the animosity surrounding the incident.


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