The New York Jets will be without several key offensive players for their upcoming game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday, following a string of injuries sustained in their recent loss to the Detroit Lions. Coach Aaron Glenn confirmed that running back Breece Hall (quad), wide receiver Adonai Mitchell (finger), tight end Mason Taylor (thumb), and guard Dylan Parham (knee) all missed Wednesday’s practice and are considered “week to week,” suggesting they are unlikely to play.
Mitchell and Taylor were already sidelined for the Lions game, while Hall and Parham were injured during the contest. With these absences, the Jets will rely on backups to fill critical roles. Running backs Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis are expected to carry a heavier workload with Hall out, while Dylan Meredith will likely start at guard in Parham’s place. On the wide receiver front, the Jets will lean on Garrett Wilson and Kenyon Sadiq; the latter was limited in practice Wednesday due to a back issue but is not a major concern according to Glenn.
On the defensive side, safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is anticipated to return after missing the past two games with a groin injury. Fitzpatrick practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday, indicating progress toward full participation.
Offensive tackle Olu Fashanu faced challenges during the game in Detroit, allowing two-and-a-half sacks. Despite this, Glenn expressed confidence in Fashanu’s abilities, noting the player’s hard work during the offseason and stressing the importance of improved protection from the entire offensive line.
Meanwhile, the New York Giants received encouraging updates on quarterback Jaxson Dart following knee surgery on Friday. Head coach John Harbaugh reported that the procedure went as expected, addressing damage to Dart’s meniscus, posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), and medial collateral ligament (MCL) without uncovering additional complications. Dart’s recovery timeline is estimated at four to six months, which may limit the likelihood of his return during the playoffs, set to begin in less than four months.
Harbaugh also spoke about the recent acquisition of quarterback J.J. McCarthy from Michigan, a move facilitated through discussions with his brother, Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh. After two days with the Giants, John Harbaugh praised McCarthy’s work ethic and football foundation, noting his dedication during practice and film study.
The Giants’ injury report for Wednesday showed several players missing practice, including offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (groin), running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. (knee), and linebacker Malik Harrison (groin). Cornerbacks Doente Banks and Tyler Nubin both practiced in a limited capacity following recent absences. Thomas is expected to play Sunday after a midweek rest ahead of the last game, and this pattern may continue.
Additionally, outside linebacker Jihad Ward rejoined the Giants after being signed off the Vikings practice squad. Ward, who tallied eight sacks over three seasons from 2022 to 2023, had appeared to advocate for a return to New York on social media prior to the start of the season.
The Jets’ defense remains desperate for turnovers, having failed to record an interception in 20 consecutive games. Upcoming matchups, such as against a backup quarterback on Sunday, may offer opportunities for players like defensive backs Azareye’h Thomas, Dane Belton, and Andre Cisco to break that streak.