New York Jets rookie tight end Kenyon Sadiq has encountered a setback in his recovery from hernia surgery, potentially delaying his return to full participation in training camp. Head coach Aaron Glenn disclosed the development on Tuesday following practice, saying Sadiq would be sidelined for an unspecified period while continuing his rehabilitation. Despite the setback, Glenn expressed confidence that the 21-year-old will be ready for the Jets’ season opener against the Tennessee Titans on September 13.
Sadiq underwent hernia surgery during the offseason after playing through the injury in his final collegiate season at Oregon. Selected 16th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Jets view him as a dynamic receiving tight end capable of creating mismatches and enhancing an offense that finished near the bottom of the league in scoring and yardage last season. Glenn emphasized the importance of managing Sadiq’s recovery carefully to ensure his long-term health and availability for the regular season.
Prior to this development, Sadiq participated in the first three training camp practices, which were conducted without pads. He missed Monday’s first padded practice and was given a “maintenance” day before the setback prompted further rest. Glenn noted that Sadiq performed well during the initial non-contact sessions but needs additional time to fully recover.
The Jets possess considerable depth at the tight end position, including second-round pick Mason Taylor, Jeremy Ruckert—who recently signed a two-year, $10 million contract extension—and veteran Jelani Woods. This depth provides the team with options to mitigate the impact of Sadiq’s absence during training camp.
In college, Sadiq showcased his athleticism by catching 51 passes for 560 yards and eight touchdowns in his lone starting season. His speed was highlighted at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he ran a 4.39-second 40-yard dash, the fastest among all tight ends that year. The Jets plan to utilize Sadiq in multiple formations to maximize his unique skill set.
In addition to Sadiq’s injury, cornerback D’Angelo Ponds is also sidelined with a calf issue and is not expected to practice further this week, although Glenn does not anticipate an extended absence. Meanwhile, wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., selected 30th overall in the draft, has drawn positive attention from teammates for his work ethic and presence in the locker room during his rookie camp. The Jets continue preparing for the regular season amid these early challenges as they look to improve upon their offensive struggles from last year.