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While the recovery timeline will keep the 33-year-old sidelined for several weeks, head coach
Defensive Adjustments and Roster Impact
In the wake of the surgery, the Jets have placed Onyemata on injured reserve. The team is now looking toward internal depth to fill the void in the defensive front. Jowon Briggs is expected to step into the starting role within the base defense, while the coaching staff may also look to increase the workload for rookie Darrell Jackson Jr., a fourth-round selection out of Florida State.
Onyemata, who joined the Jets on a one-year, $10.5 million deal during the offseason, has logged 45 defensive snaps across the first two games of the season. While he has yet to record a tackle or a sack, he has contributed three quarterback pressures. His absence adds to a growing list of injury concerns for the defensive unit, which has already been managing the health of edge rusher Joseph Ossai and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. Ossai, who has been sidelined with a foot injury, is nearing a return, though Fitzpatrick remains out of practice as he deals with a groin issue.
Season-Ending Blow for Arian Smith
The injury report also brought definitive bad news for wide receiver Arian Smith. The 2025 fourth-round pick has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after sustaining an ACL tear during the same contest against Green Bay. Smith, who had been utilized primarily for his contributions on special teams, was also placed on injured reserve.
As the Jets prepare for their upcoming road matchup against the Detroit Lions, other roster concerns persist. Tight end Mason Taylor did not participate in practice due to a thumb injury, leaving his availability for Sunday's game in question. Despite the mounting injuries, the Jets' defense currently holds the top ranking in yards allowed through the first two weeks of the season.
