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Debate

Can Haason Reddick's return ignite a Jets comeback, or is it too late for a playoff push?

It looks like New York can finally breathe a sigh of relief—another soap opera drama is wrapping up. After six long months, edge rusher Haason Reddick is back at Jets HQ. But the real question? Can the Gang Green count on him to suit up for Sunday’s big clash against the Patriots?

According to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, Reddick’s return is likely, but Jeff Ulbrich is playing it safe. Ulbrich wants to watch him over the next couple of days before locking in that decision. So, fingers crossed, Jets fans!

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Reddick ended his holdout after reaching a new deal that not only pays him the rest of his base salary but also gives him a shot at recouping some of the nearly $12 million he lost in fines. Talk about a win-win! “He’s fired up,” Ulbrich said. “Ready to get rolling with us.” It sounds like Reddick is raring to go, but there are still a few physical assessments to pass before he can jump back into the action.

Ulbrich mentioned that they wouldn’t have a definitive answer on Reddick’s availability for the Pats game until later in the week. “I think it’s a little too early to say that,” he said. “Looks like he’s in great spirits, he says he’s in great shape.” Now, isn’t that what every fan wants to hear? Of course, getting back into the swing of things will take some time.

Some folks might wonder how the team will welcome Reddick back after his absence for the first seven games. But by the looks of it, everyone is ready to embrace him with open arms. “I’m super excited about Haason,” defensive lineman Solomon Thomas said, echoing the sentiments of many in the locker room. And, to be honest, who isn’t at this point?

Haason Reddick has uplifted the mood of the Jets’ D-line

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Can Haason Reddick's return ignite a Jets comeback, or is it too late for a playoff push?

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Haason Reddick came to the Jets in exchange for a conditional third-round pick in the 2026 draft, which could turn into a second-rounder if he hits certain performance milestones. While it’s a bit late for him to rack up the required game time this season, Reddick still has a lot to offer a defense that’s been trying to find its rhythm, especially after losing Bryce Huff in free agency.

Reddick’s no stranger to getting to the quarterback, boasting double-digit sacks for three different teams over the past four years. And now, sigh, he wrapped up his contract dispute with the Jets just in time for a critical matchup against the Patriots. As you can expect, LB Quincy Williams couldn’t hide his excitement when discussing Reddick’s arrival. “He gives us depth on the D-Line also and provides the other guys more of a break,” Williams said.

But even Reddick has a big task in front of him. If we talk about the Jets’ current situation. They’re sitting at 2-5, and things have looked pretty bleak, with Aaron Rodgers struggling and even the coaching shakeup.

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But here’s the kicker: it’s not too late to turn this season around! A favorable matchup against a struggling Patriots team could be just what they need. Reddick could find himself in a prime position to snag that first sack of the season, especially against New England’s battered offensive line. That is, if Ulbrich trusts him to get some minutes.

After that, the Gang would face the Texans, Cardinals, and Colts, all of which are winnable games. No disrespect, but on paper NYJ looks good. But that’s all there is—on paper. With Reddick joining forces with Will McDonald—who already has eight sacks—there’s hope for this team. Can they put together a winning streak and finally shake off that postseason drought?

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