Jets Rookie Will Return In Week 9

The New York Jets fell to the New England Patriots in Week 8, but still sit at 5-3 on the year, and with a matchup against the Buffalo Bills before their bye, they'll need all hands on deck to compete with the AFC leaders, and today, Head Coach Robert Saleh confirmed the return of first-round rookie Jermaine Johnson. Johnson has missed the past few weeks, but after the team traded away Jacob Martin, it opens up more snaps for the rookie, who has impressed in limited snaps thus far in 2022.

Robert Saleh said Jermaine Johnson will be active this week. #Jets

— Zack Rosenblatt (@ZackBlatt) November 2, 2022

It's not that he hasn't earned a spot, it's just that the Jets defensive line is their strongest group, and with names such as Quinnen Williams, Bryce Huff, Carl Lawson and John Franklin-Meyers, he hasn't been able to get the consistent snaps he would have liked. In that limited time during his 4 active games, Johnson has 1.5 sacks and 12 tackles, and has made a big impact when given the opportunity.

Johnson's return likely won't be the difference between winning or losing against the Bills, but this young Jets team is set up for long-term success, and if the rookie out of Florida State can become a key part of this defensive line, then success looks much more achievable for New York.

Photo Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports