Edge rusher Haason Reddick will make his Jets debut Sunday against the New England Patriots.
The announcement came from interim coach Jeff Ulbrich on Friday, with the team confirming Reddick’s activation the following day.
Reddick concluded a lengthy contract holdout by reporting to the team on Monday, subsequently being removed from the reserve/did not report list. His week of practice impressed the Jets coaching staff.
“He had a productive week with us,” Ulbrich noted. “His experience across various systems made it easier for him to adapt to ours. He dedicated extra time to learn the playbook and showed he was in good physical condition.”
“We are looking forward to his contributions to our pass rush,” he added.
Ulbrich confirmed that Reddick will not face any snap count restrictions in his first game.
“He believes he is in good shape,” Ulbrich said. “While he hasn’t participated in many team drills, he has been working with pass rush specialists and maintaining his conditioning. We’ll evaluate him as the game progresses.”
This matchup marks the second consecutive game where a high-profile player will debut for the Jets, following wide receiver Davante Adams, who played last Sunday just days after joining from Las Vegas.
At 30 years old, Reddick enhances a pass rush currently ranked sixth in the NFL with 20 sacks, including a remarkable eight from second-year edge rusher Will McDonald.
“We perform best when we can rush with four players,” Ulbrich explained. “Reddick will facilitate that approach.”
Reddick has recorded double-digit sack totals in each of the past four seasons. However, some critics have pointed out that he has not always excelled against the run, focusing more on pressuring the quarterback.
“I’m giving him a fresh start here,” Ulbrich stated. “This week, he has shown significant improvement in run defense, setting edges, and getting to the ball. His practice performance has been commendable.”
Defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton remarked that Reddick approached learning the Jets’ defensive terminology with a “very businesslike” attitude, and the coaching staff gradually increased his practice reps throughout the week.
“He brings a lot to our pass rush efforts,” cornerback Sauce Gardner commented. “His ability to pressure the quarterback and contribute effectively against the run gives us great versatility. I’m excited to play alongside him on Sunday.”
Reddick’s last appearance was in the Philadelphia Eagles’ playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on January 15. He sought a trade during the offseason after the Eagles opted not to renegotiate his contract. The Jets acquired Reddick in March with the understanding that he would play under his existing deal while discussions for a new contract would follow.
After being placed on the reserve/did not report list on July 25, Reddick requested a trade on August 12. Recently switching agents, his new representatives, Drew Rosenhaus and Ryan Matha, engaged with the Jets about a potential trade, which the team permitted. However, an agreement was reached last Sunday on an adjusted contract for the current season, with intentions for a long-term deal.
Declining to speak to reporters this week, Reddick indicated through the Jets’ public relations team that he would address the media after the game on Sunday.
“Hate me now, love me later,” Reddick posted on Instagram Thursday night. “I’m still going to be me.”
