Jets Place Young Tackle On Injured Reserve

The New York Jets have had a unique start to the 2022 season, as they began without starting QB Zach Wilson, and have two fantastic comeback wins in four weeks, but on the flip side, the injuries, specifically to the tackle position have been horrendous. Firstly it was Mekhi Becton, who was expected to be the right tackle for years to come, then it was his replacement Duane Brown, and finally, it was the other veteran starter at tackle, George Fant, who has been moved all over the line thus far in 2022.

We've activated T Duane Brown from IR and placed T Max Mitchell on IR.

We've also elevated LB Hamsah Nasirildeen for tomorrow's game.

— New York Jets (@nyjets) October 8, 2022

This led to the team starting second year guard Alijah Vera-Tucker at left tackle in the Week 4 win over the Pittsburgh, but then, even more bad news came through, as the Jets lost solid rookie tackle Max Mitchell, and while many feared the worst, his season isn't over. With Brown coming back in Week 5, the Jets needed to make a corresponding move however, and they did this by placing Mitchell on Injured Reserve, meaning that he will miss at least 4 games.

Mitchell started the Jets first four games, and while there were certainly some growing pains from the fourth-round rookie, he was more than solid, and after his performance, he could become a key member of this line for years to come. For now however, Mitchell will be missing for the Jets next four games, but if they can get him back and performing, he'll be another bright spot for what has been a very good rookie class so far in 2022 for New York. 

Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports