In a disappointing turn of events for the New York Jets, star edge rusher Haason Reddick will be absent for the team's season opener against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday night. Reddick, who was the Jets' biggest offseason acquisition, has been holding out for a new contract and has yet to report to the team.

The Jets' head coach, Robert Saleh, reluctantly acknowledged on Saturday that it is now too late for Reddick to be activated for the game. Although Saleh did not explicitly state the reason, he hinted that it would be fair to conclude as such. Despite previously stating that it was still feasible for Reddick to play if he reported, the team has already completed its game preparation.

The holdout situation shows no signs of reaching a resolution, as Reddick requested a trade on August 12, further complicating matters. However, Saleh has chosen to take a conciliatory approach, refusing to criticize Reddick for his stance. When asked about the situation, Saleh emphasized that once Reddick does eventually join the team, he will be welcomed with open arms and will play a crucial role in helping the Jets win games. Saleh made it clear that the financial aspects of the situation are outside his purview.

The Jets traded for Reddick on March 29, giving up a conditional 2026 third-round pick to the Philadelphia Eagles. Reddick, who is set to earn a nonguaranteed $14.25 million in base pay in the final year of his contract, held an introductory news conference on April 1 but hasn't returned to the team facility since. Sources indicate that Reddick is upset about not receiving a long-term extension.

As a result of his holdout, Reddick has already incurred $2.05 million in mandatory fines for skipping training camp. Additionally, he will forfeit game checks, amounting to approximately $800,000 per week. Furthermore, by not being on the Week 1 roster, Reddick will not have his entire salary guaranteed.

Despite Reddick's absence, the Jets' players remain confident in their ability to perform without him. Defensive end Jermaine Johnson expressed unwavering belief in the team's capabilities, stating that they are fully poised to make an impact this season.

The Jets will be without three key members of last season's defensive line, including sack leader Bryce Huff, as they take on the 49ers. However, Johnson expressed no concerns about a drop-off in performance, highlighting the team's strong defensive line rotation and its ability to make adjustments on every play.

Even though the absence of Reddick is a setback, the Jets are still equipped with a talented defensive unit and expect to perform at an elite level. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich expressed his belief in the team's ability to play hard and excel on the field.

As the season opener approaches, the New York Jets will embark on their campaign without their prized acquisition, Haason Reddick, due to his contract holdout. The team remains focused on the task at hand and is determined to start the season on a positive note, despite the absence of one of their star defensive players.