Haason Reddick might be holding out of OTAs due to contract situation

The NY Jets have high expectations for offseason acquisition Haason Reddick, who is expected to immediately step in as one of the team's best defensive players. To do so, however, he'll need to be on the field.

The Jets kicked off their voluntary OTAs last month, and while the vast majority of the roster was in attendance, Reddick has not been seen at the team's facilities to this point.

Of course, these practices are voluntary, so there is no reason to be too concerned at this moment. That said, given what we know about Reddick's situation, it's very possible that his absence is contract-related.

That was the sentiment shared by ESPN's Rich Cimini on Sunday. Cimini speculated that Reddick might be unofficially "holding out" (since the practices are voluntary, it's not an official holdout) from OTAs as he awaits an extension this offseason.

"There was speculation about a contract extension for pass-rusher Haason Reddick when he arrived via trade in late March. Publicly, it's all quiet on that front. Perhaps not coincidentally, he didn't attend the first two open OTA practices; the next open practice is Tuesday. The sessions are voluntary, but it's noteworthy when a high-profile acquisition isn't present."

Haason Reddick

Will the NY Jets extend Haason Reddick this summer?

Reddick, who was acquired by the Jets in April, has one year remaining on a three-year, $45 million contract he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles prior to the 2022 season.

The former Defensive Player of the Year finalist hinted in his introductory press conference that he would like to hammer out a new deal before the start of the season, but he also suggested that he would be content with either outcome.

It certainly would make sense for the Jets to get a deal done as soon as possible. The team likely didn't trade for Reddick with the expectation that he would be a one-year rental. Waiting another year might only cause his price tag to go up (see Bryce Huff).

The Jets do have other big-money extensions to worry about in the near future. Players like Sauce Gardner, Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall, and Jermaine Johnson will all be extension-eligible next offseason. Not to mention others such as D.J. Reed and Michael Carter II, who are on expiring deals.

Still, Reddick should probably be a priority for the Jets. Right now, there isn't anything to be too concerned about. Reddick isn't required to be in attendance at OTAs and he's not the only player on the roster missing.

The real story is regarding Reddick's contract, which likely explains his absence. Why risk injury at a voluntary event when you don't have long-term security on your current contract?

The Jets will likely start to worry a little if Reddick doesn't show up for mandatory minicamp, which is set to run from June 11-13. Until then, there's no reason to be concerned.