New York Jets’ top edge rusher carted off, ruled out after injuring Achilles

It’s never usually a good sign when the cart comes out onto the field.

Unfortunately, that was the scene for the New York Jets’ defense late in the third quarter against the Tennessee Titans. Starting edge rusher Jermaine Johnson was carted off the field due to an Achilles injury suffered during a quarterback scramble play.

With Tennessee facing a 17-10 deficit on 3rd-and-1 from its own 38-yard line, quarterback Will Levis escaped pressure and rushed for 21 yards. Johnson remained down on the ground following the big gain and medical personnel quickly made their way to the injured player.

In under three minutes of game time after his exit, Johnson was ruled out for the remainder of the game. The 2022 first-round draft pick logged two solo tackles prior to the injury.

With Haason Reddick holding out due to a contract dispute, Johnson is viewed as the team’s top edge rusher. He is coming off a Pro Bowl selection last season. The severity of Johnson’s injury is unknown. The Jets lost three players to Achilles ruptures in 2023, including quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

The good news for the Gang Green is that second-year defensive end Will McDonald showed up in Week 2. The first-round talent made 2.0 sacks and forced a fumble over the first three quarters.

The Jets elevated defensive end Jalyn Holmes from the Practice Squad on Saturday, making another body available at the position.

Earlier in the game, New York lost starting linebacker, and team captain, CJ Mosley to a toe injury.

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