What is the procedure for a player to be activated if they do not pass the preseason physical?

The procedure for a player to be activated if they do not pass the preseason physical includes a specific timeline concerning their readiness and eligibility to return to the active roster. When a player does not pass their preseason physical, they are typically moved to a reserve list, such as the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list.

In accordance with the rules, a player on the PUP list can miss the first four regular-season games. After that period, the team has a window of 21 days during which they can evaluate the player's progress. If the player is deemed fit within that 21-day period, they can be activated to the 53-man roster. This dual process of initially missing games and then having a designated timeframe for reinstatement is designed to ensure that players recover fully from injuries before participating in games, which ultimately protects their health and well-being.

Thus, the correct answer details this necessary combination of game absences and an evaluation period leading to potential reinstatement to the active roster.