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New York Jets quarterback Christian Hackenberg could dress for Saturday's game at New England. (AP Photo | Gene Puskar)

During his regular appearance Monday on ESPN New York radio, Jets coach Todd Bowles confirmed quarterback Bryce Petty's CT chest scan came back negative.

Bowles also said rookie Christian Hackenberg could dress and be active Saturday at the Patriots, as the Jets' third quarterback, depending on Petty's health.

Hackenberg, drafted in Round 2, has been inactive for every game this season for the 4-10 Jets. Former starter Ryan Fitzpatrick has been Petty's backup since he became the Jets' full-time starter two games ago, for a win at the 49ers.

Petty underwent further tests Sunday after sustaining a chest injury -- via a vicious hit -- during Saturday night's loss to the Dolphins. X-rays immediately after the game also were negative.

Bowles said Monday that Petty is sore, but doing better than expected. It is still unclear if Petty will be healthy enough to play on Christmas Eve in New England.

Earlier this month, after naming Petty the starter for the final four games, Bowles said Hackenberg would not play this season, barring injury to Petty or Fitzpatrick, because Hackenberg hadn't received enough practice reps to be prepared.

But now, there is an injury. And because of that, Hackenberg could be in uniform Saturday afternoon at the Patriots, for the first time.

Darryl Slater may be reached at dslater@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DarrylSlater. Find NJ.com Jets on Facebook.