The New York Jets, who have dropped three consecutive games, are facing a potential significant absence for their upcoming road contest against the heavily favored Kansas City Chiefs. Star wide receiver Garrett Wilson is currently undergoing concussion protocol and has been designated as day-to-day by head coach Aaron Glenn, leaving his availability for the weekend game uncertain.
Wilson sustained a head injury during Sunday's 38-33 defeat against the Las Vegas Raiders. The incident occurred on the Jets' penultimate play of the game when Wilson was hit while making a catch. Although Las Vegas safety Jeremy Chinn was penalized for unnecessary roughness, Wilson remained on the field for the final play, an unsuccessful Hail Mary pass intended for him in the end zone. According to Glenn, Wilson reported to the team facility on Monday with lingering concussion symptoms.
In a more positive development, the Jets anticipate the return of running back Breece Hall, who has been sidelined for five games due to a quadriceps injury. Glenn stated that Hall is trending in the right direction and is expected to be back in the lineup. The team has approached Hall's rehabilitation with caution to avoid the risk of further injury, and he has been practicing on a limited basis for the past two weeks while listed as questionable for the last two contests.
The Jets have had some breathing room in the backfield thanks to the strong performance of Braelon Allen. Since starting five games, Allen has accumulated 504 rushing yards and averages 5.0 yards per carry. He is currently second in the NFL for rushing yards over that specific span, trailing only Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving, who has 548 yards.
When asked about his plans for managing a backfield that could feature both Hall and Allen, Glenn provided a concise response. He stated that both players would see time on the field but declined to offer further details on how the workload would be split.
Hall, who signed a three-year contract worth $43.5 million during the offseason, has been the subject of trade rumors. On Monday, Glenn firmly dismissed speculation about moving the running back, emphasizing that the team is in the business of retaining top talent. He noted that Hall is one of their better players and confirmed that he will remain with the Jets.
Wilson is a crucial component of the Jets' offense, leading the team with 43 receptions, 527 receiving yards, and three touchdown catches. While the team is hopeful for his return, they have depth at the receiver position. Adonai Mitchell and rookie Omar Cooper Jr. have both demonstrated capability, with Mitchell recording a career-high 147 yards in the previous week and Cooper already posting two 100-yard receiving games.
The Jets may also receive a boost to their pass rush this week. Rookie David Bailey, who leads the team with 5.5 sacks, is likely to play after missing one game with a groin injury. Additionally, edge rusher Joseph Ossai, who has been out for the last three games due to an ankle injury, is also poised to return to the active roster.
