In a heartbreaking turn of events, New York Jets defensive end Jermaine Johnson confirmed via social media on Monday that he has ruptured his right Achilles tendon.
The Jets’ standout third-year pass rusher, a recent Pro Bowl selection as an injury replacement in 2023, is now expected to miss the remainder of the season due to a Week 2 injury against the Tennessee Titans.
Johnson shared the news alongside a video of himself using a leg scooter at the Jets facility. He stated that the MRI results, which were received Monday, made his diagnosis official.
“Thank you all for your prayers and support. This is not a dark time for me, even though there will be dark days ahead, this is God’s way of giving me the opportunity to grow—not only as a man, person, and player, but to inspire others to do the same,” Johnson wrote, promising that he will “come back and be better.”
The 25-year-old sustained the injury on a non-contact play while pursuing Tennessee quarterback Will Levis in the third quarter of Sunday’s 24-17 road win. Johnson immediately grabbed his right leg and was eventually carried off the field on a stretcher.
The Jets went all-in during the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft to select Johnson at No. 26 overall. In his career spanning 33 games (19 starts), he has amassed an impressive 88 tackles, 10 sacks, seven pass deflections, one interception, and one forced fumble.
Johnson’s injury will likely make Haason Reddick’s absence even more noticeable. The Jets acquired Reddick from the Philadelphia Eagles in the offseason, yet Reddick has been sidelined for virtually his entire tenure with the Jets as he searches for a long-term deal. He’s already forfeited two game checks in addition to racking up more than $5 million in fines.
The situation becomes more complicated as Jets coach Robert Saleh told reporters that starting linebacker C.J. Mosley injured his toe during the game against the Titans. While Saleh didn’t confirm the extent of the injury, he did not rule out Mosley being unavailable for the Week 3 home opener against the New England Patriots on Thursday, especially with the shortened week looming.
As always, the NFL is a rollercoaster of emotions, triumphs, and heartbreaking setbacks. The Jets now face an uphill battle as they navigate these critical injuries.
