As headlines swirl around NFL coaching legend Bill Belichick’s relationship with 24-year-old Jordon Hudson, a surprising voice has emerged in her defense: a former romantic partner, 64-year-old healthcare executive Joshua Zuckerman.

Zuckerman, the CEO of a New York-based healthcare firm, confirmed to the Wall Street Journal that he and Hudson were previously involved in a relationship. Speaking candidly about the recent media storm, he described Hudson as a “remarkable young woman” whose portrayal in the press has been, in his words, “both unfair and reductive.”

“She is wise beyond her years, more than any 20-something I’ve ever met in my life,” Zuckerman said in a phone interview. “The narrative about her character is not fair to her. People are jumping to conclusions without understanding who she really is.”

Hudson, a former cheerleader and philosophy major, became publicly linked to Belichick, 72, earlier this year following his departure from the New England Patriots after 24 seasons. Their relationship has drawn attention not just for the age gap, but for the contrast between Belichick’s stoic football persona and Hudson’s comparatively unknown background.

Zuckerman insists Hudson’s motives are being misrepresented. “She is not a gold digger,” he said. “Jordon is intelligent, independent, and one of the most driven people I’ve ever met. She has her own goals and values, and she doesn’t define herself through the people she dates.”

Though their romantic relationship has ended, Zuckerman says they remain close. “We still talk. There’s genuine respect and affection between us,” he said.

Neither Hudson nor Belichick have commented publicly on Zuckerman’s remarks. A representative for Belichick declined to respond to requests for comment.

Belichick, known for his meticulous approach to football and reserved public demeanor, has kept his private life tightly guarded over the decades. Hudson, meanwhile, has yet to make any formal media appearances or interviews, despite the heightened attention.

Zuckerman’s public defense is a rare move in the high-profile world of sports-adjacent celebrity relationships, where silence and speculation often dominate. “I just think it’s important that people understand—she’s not some caricature,” he said. “She’s a real person.”

As for the scrutiny that accompanies dating a sports icon, Zuckerman says Hudson is prepared. “She’s stronger than people give her credit for.”