The dreaded Achilles tear has apparently claimed another New York Jets' starter.
Jets' defensive end Jermaine Johnson went down on a third-down play in the third quarter against the Tennessee Titans, and the cart was needed to get him off the field. Shortly after exiting, Johnson was ruled out by the team due to an Achilles injury.
Following New York's 24-17 road win, head coach Robert Saleh suggested that that injury is likely a season-ending tendon rupture.
"It's unfortunately looking like that," said Saleh. "We'll confirm it tomorrow, but it doesn't look good."
Before the game clock expired, Johnson, who recorded two solo tackles prior to leaving, posted a somewhat ominous message on the social media site known as X.
"Dam… praying for the best! Love yall❤️🙏🏾 finish it yall boys💯🫡," said Johnson, a 2022 first-round draft pick that earned a Pro Bowl selection last season.
The loss of Johnson hurts New York a little extra due to the fact that edge rusher Haason Reddick has been holding out due to his unmet contract demands. Second-year player Will McDonald stepped up in a big way with 3.0 sacks and one forced fumble in Week 2, but the Jets are suddenly seriously thin at the position.
Meanwhile, New York is coming off a season that saw three starters lost to Achilles tears. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers was the first to go down in 2023 followed by right guard Alijah Vera-Tucker and former defensive tackle Al Woods.
The Jets have little time to prepare for their Week 3 matchup as the New England Patriots invade MetLife Stadium for Thursday Night Football on September 19.
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• Allen Lazard's two-word response on difference from first season with Jets
• 49ers' superstar edge rusher disses Jets while preparing for Vikings
• Jets sign former seven-year starter to Practice Squad as OL insurance
