It's looking more and more like edge rusher Haason Reddick won't be available for the New York Jets ' season opener on Monday Night Football.
"I can't lay out any expectations right now, but when he does arrive, we're all gonna be excited," said Jets general manager Joe Douglas on Thursday in Florham Park, only 11 days away from the September 9 road game against the San Francisco 49ers .
Reddick, who never reported to training camp, is still holding out due to a contract dispute . Coming off back-to-back Pro Bowl selections, the fierce edge rusher apparently wants an extension that includes a significant amount of guaranteed money.
"Nothing's changed from our end. Obviously, a ton of respect for Haason. Awaiting his arrival and looking forward to when he does, he's going to be welcomed with open arms," said Douglas.
The Jets traded for Reddick in March sending a conditional draft pick to the Philadelphia Eagles on exchange for the team's sacks leader from the last two years. After attending an introductory press conference, the New Jersey-born defensive end never returned for voluntary OTAs and also was a no-show for mandatory June minicamp.
"The ball's in their court and whenever he's ready to come here, we can't wait to have him," said Douglas.
New York could certainly make good use of Reddick's double-digit sacks potential opposite starting edge rusher Jermaine Johnson. The Jets traded away veteran defensive end John Franklin-Myers and are currently relying on less-experienced players at the position.
Although not confirmed by Jets' brass, one has to think Reddick will need some type of ramp-up period once finally arriving at the facility, no matter how good of shape he's in. There's also the factor that New York employs a different defensive scheme to the one Reddick played under with the Eagles.
"I have faith this will all get resolved," said Douglas.
It may well wind up working out for the Jets, but probably not swiftly enough for Reddick to play in Week 1.
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