The
This absence comes at a difficult time for the Jets, who are currently navigating an unprecedented defensive slump. The team is mired in the longest interception drought in NFL history, having gone 18 consecutive games—spanning 571 pass attempts—without recording a single takeaway through the air. The streak dates back to the final game of the 2024 season.
Defensive adjustments and secondary depth
In the wake of Fitzpatrick’s injury, head coach
Coach Glenn expressed confidence in the remaining personnel, noting that the team possesses enough veteran leadership to compensate for the loss of their primary playmaker. The secondary faces a stern test against Packers quarterback Jordan Love, who enters the contest coming off a 387-yard, two-touchdown performance against the Minnesota Vikings. Glenn, who previously faced Love while serving as the Detroit Lions' defensive coordinator, acknowledged the quarterback's significant arm talent.
Injury updates and roster changes
Beyond the secondary, the Jets are managing further injury concerns on the offensive side of the ball. Rookie wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. has been ruled out with a sprained ankle, an injury that may keep him sidelined for multiple weeks. Isaiah Williams is expected to absorb Cooper's responsibilities as the No. 3 receiver, though the team retains the option to elevate veterans Sterling Shepard or Tyler Johnson from the practice squad.
Special teams will also see a familiar face, as Jason Sanders has been added to the roster from the practice squad to handle kicking duties for the second consecutive week. Sanders, who is competing with Blake Grupe for the position, successfully converted three field goals in the Jets' 23-10 victory over the Tennessee Titans last week after an initial miss. The Jets enter Sunday's matchup aiming to secure a 2-0 start for the first time since 2015.
