The New York Jets’ standout defensive end Jermaine Johnson II is feasibly facing a ruptured right Achilles tendon, a grim scenario that played out during Sunday’s 24-17 win over the Tennessee Titans.
“Unfortunately, it looks that way,” Jets coach Robert Saleh somberly revealed to reporters. “We’ll confirm it tomorrow, but it doesn’t look good.”
To grasp the full extent of this potential season-altering injury, Johnson will undergo an MRI scan.
The mishap occurred in the third quarter; a non-contact play as Johnson sprinted toward Tennessee quarterback Will Levis led to the instant horror of the defensive end clutching his right leg. The sight of him being carried off the field on a stretcher was a gut-wrenching moment for both the team and the fans.
In a heartfelt moment, Johnson revealed, “I cried in the locker room and called my mother and other family members after being told I had a serious injury.”
Holding onto hope, Johnson added, “I hope everything goes well. We still have to clarify the situation and make sure. It hasn’t been fun.”
Johnson, who is just 25, is in his third NFL season after being picked in the first round (26th overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft. Last season, he made a significant impact, notching 7.5 sacks and amassing 55 tackles, earning him a spot in his first Pro Bowl.
Adding to the Jets’ concerns, inside linebacker C.J. Mosley was also carted off the field in the second quarter due to a right toe injury after making three tackles.
Saleh remains hopeful that Mosley will bounce back in time for Thursday night’s crucial home game against the New England Patriots.
The Jets are in a critical phase of their season, and the potential loss of Johnson is a significant blow. We can only hold our breath and hope for the best as these passionate athletes confront the fierce trials of the NFL.
