Haason Reddick is set to end his holdout with the New York Jets, officially reporting to the team on Monday. This decision marks a significant turn in his relationship with the franchise.
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The agreement comes just days after Reddick was granted permission by the Jets to explore trade options. He has remained off the field this season due to a contract dispute following his acquisition from Philadelphia in late March, aimed at enhancing the Jets’ pass rush.
According to ESPN, Reddick’s return to the team was confirmed, with NFL Network reporting that the Jets will cover $12 million in fines he accrued while absent, treating it as a bonus for his return.
Agent Drew Rosenhaus, who recently took over representation of Reddick alongside Ryan Matha, indicated that Reddick “would like to be a New York Jet for years to come.” This statement followed Jets owner Woody Johnson’s comments at the NFL’s fall meetings in Atlanta, where he mentioned the team’s willingness to let Reddick seek a trade.
Ultimately, Reddick has chosen to remain with the Jets for the remainder of the season.
As the last remaining holdout in the NFL, Reddick has not participated in any games since his trade was finalized and he passed his physical on April 1.
The 30-year-old was placed on the reserve/did not report list on July 25, shortly after training camp began. He requested a trade on August 12, but general manager Joe Douglas swiftly declined, asserting that the Jets would not accommodate his request.
The Jets are gearing up to face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday night, following a challenging two-week period. This includes the unexpected firing of head coach Robert Saleh on October 8, leading to defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich stepping in as interim coach, with offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett being reassigned.
In a notable move, the Jets recently traded for wide receiver Davante Adams from Las Vegas, reuniting him with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, a former teammate in Green Bay. Adams, who missed the Raiders’ last three games, is anticipated to play against the Steelers.
With Reddick finally joining the defense, the Jets hope to strengthen their performance on that side of the ball.
Reddick was expected to earn $14.25 million in non-guaranteed base salary during the last year of his contract, but he sought a long-term extension from the Eagles. After Philadelphia declined to offer a new deal, Reddick requested a trade, ultimately landing with the Jets.
During a press call regarding Saleh’s dismissal, Johnson made a direct appeal to Reddick to join the team. He stated, “Haason, get in your car, drive down (Interstate) 95 and come to the New York Jets. We can meet you and give you an escort right into the building. You’ll fit right in, and you’re going to love it here.”
As a two-time Pro Bowl edge rusher, Reddick boasts an impressive career total of 58 sacks over seven seasons in the NFL.