The New York Jets secured their first win of the season on Sunday, but their defense may have taken a significant hit. Edge rusher Jermaine Johnson was carted off the field during the game, and he was quickly ruled out due to an Achilles injury. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, there are concerns that Johnson may have suffered a torn Achilles, which could end his season, pending further tests.
Johnson, who had a rotational role during his rookie season with 2.5 sacks, made a significant leap in 2023, recording 7.5 sacks and 25 pressures. The 25-year-old’s breakout performance earned him a Pro Bowl nod, and he was expected to continue his upward trajectory in 2024. However, if the Achilles tear is confirmed, Johnson will face a lengthy recovery, leaving a void in the Jets’ defense.
The situation is further complicated by the unresolved holdout of Haason Reddick, who was acquired via trade from the Philadelphia Eagles but has yet to report to the team due to a contract dispute. Reddick, a consistently productive edge rusher with double-digit sacks in every season since 2020, has incurred millions in fines and lost significant game checks. Jets general manager Joe Douglas has made it clear that no negotiations for a restructured contract or extension will occur until Reddick reports to the team.
With both Johnson potentially sidelined and Reddick absent, the Jets’ defense faces a major challenge. Rookie Will McDonald, who showed promise with three sacks in limited play last season, is likely to see increased playing time in Johnson’s absence. The Jets, with nearly $18 million in cap space, could explore adding reinforcements, though the free-agent market is thin, and potential trade options may not emerge until closer to the deadline.
Johnson is under contract until 2025, with the Jets set to decide on his 2026 fifth-year option this spring. While he appeared to be on track for a strong season, his injury complicates the team’s future decisions and puts added pressure on Reddick’s contract situation.
