**Haason Reddick Set for Debut with Jets Against Patriots After Holdout**

In a much-anticipated move, Pro Bowl edge rusher Haason Reddick is prepared to make his debut for the New York Jets this Sunday against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Reddick recently joined the team on Monday after a prolonged contract holdout that included a trade request.

Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich confirmed Reddick’s active status for the game, noting the veteran player's impressive adaptability and physical form during practice sessions. "He's just such an experienced guy," Ulbrich said on Friday. "He's been in so many systems, so to pick up ours wasn't super difficult for him. He really put in the extra time to learn it and, physically, he looked good out there."

Reddick's playing time won't be limited by a predefined snap count; instead, the coaching staff will assess his workload throughout the game. The Jets, currently holding a 2-5 record and desperate to end a four-game losing streak, hope Reddick's presence, along with the recently added wide receiver Davante Adams, will help salvage their season. Adams had a modest start with three receptions for 30 yards in his debut last week.

Reddick, aged 30, has been inactive since the Philadelphia Eagles' playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on January 15. He is likely to be used initially as a situational rusher, potentially replacing Micheal Clemons on third downs and pairing with sack leader Will McDonald. Reddick's track record of 50.5 sacks over the last four seasons should enable Ulbrich to rely more on four-man rushes instead of frequent blitzing. This season, the Jets' defensive lineup has blitzed at a 31% rate compared to 17% last year.

While Reddick skipped the first seven games, forfeiting $5.5 million of his $14.25 million base salary and accruing over $6 million in fines, he managed to secure an adjusted contract for 2024. He will earn his remaining base salary of $8.7 million along with $5.3 million in performance-related incentives.

Jets players have welcomed Reddick without resentment for his holdout. Defensive tackle Solomon Thomas emphasized there are no hard feelings, saying, "No one has hatred towards him for the time he missed. No one is looking at him sideways."

Reddick has stayed out of the media spotlight, declining interviews this week but indicated his determination through social media by posting, "Hate me now, love me later. I'm still gone be me."

The Jets will also see the return of cornerback D.J. Reed and nickel back Michael Carter II this Sunday. However, safety Tony Adams and wide receiver Allen Lazard are doubtful, and guard Alijah Vera-Tucker has been ruled out for the game.