FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Haason Reddick, the notable edge rusher, may make his debut with the New York Jets as early as this Sunday when they face off against the New England Patriots.


After a prolonged holdout regarding his contract, Reddick reported to the team on Monday and participated in a walkthrough practice session on Wednesday. Jets interim coach Jeff Ulbrich expressed optimism about Reddick’s potential to play, stating, “I would anticipate he plays. He’s an experienced player. He’s familiar with a defense similar to ours, so I don’t expect him to struggle with the schematics. It’s all about how he feels physically.”


Reddick was taken off the reserve/did not report list on Monday, allowing the Jets a two-game roster exemption granted by the NFL. This exemption gives the team the opportunity to evaluate Reddick without having to activate him immediately or alter the roster. However, if Reddick feels ready this week, the decision might become less complicated.


“If he’s ready, we’re going to roll,” Ulbrich said. “We definitely need him; he’s integral to our defensive success.” Reddick joined the Jets from Philadelphia in March to bolster their pass rush. However, he hadn’t been present at the team facility since April 1, the date when he passed his physical and made the trade official. This absence initiated an unusual contract holdout saga in recent NFL history.


At 30 years old, Reddick was set to earn $14.25 million in non-guaranteed base salary in the final year of his contract when he sought a trade from Philadelphia after the Eagles opted not to offer him a new deal. The Jets agreed to take on Reddick with the intention of having him fulfill his current contract before negotiating any new terms, yet he skipped mandatory workouts, minicamp, and training camp, leading to his placement on the reserve/did not report list on July 25—just two days into training camp.


After requesting a trade on August 12, general manager Joe Douglas swiftly rejected that idea, affirming that the Jets would not accommodate his request. Reddick switched agents recently, with new representatives Drew Rosenhaus and Ryan Matha reaching out to the Jets to discuss allowing Reddick to seek a trade. However, a resolution was ultimately achieved on Sunday with the agreement on a modified contract for this season, setting the stage for discussions on a long-term deal.


Ulbrich noted that his discussions with Reddick since his arrival have been “fantastic.” He mentioned that he made an immediate effort to alleviate any tension. “The defense embraced him, and the team welcomed him. We’re eager to integrate him into our system. He’s also excited to get started, which makes it an exciting time for everyone involved.”


While Ulbrich emphasized the necessity of evaluating Reddick thoroughly in the upcoming days, the team remains hopeful about him making his debut against the Patriots. “He’s told me he’s been staying active and conditioning, alongside working on football activities. I’m thrilled to see his progress in the next couple of days.”