The New York Jets have suffered an enormous damage blow ahead of their season opener, with guard Alijah Vera-Tucker taking place simply 4 days forward of their conflict with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
A number of experiences declare Vera-Tucker has suffered a critical arm damage which will require surgical procedure.
The information comes as a doubtlessly pivotal setback forward of Aaron Glenn’s first sport as the brand new head coach of the Jets.
Jets quarterback Justin Fields, enjoying in opposition to the staff for whom he began six video games final yr, can have a troublesome activity in opposition to a fearsome Steelers move rush, and that problem can be much more troublesome with out Vera-Tucker.
A primary-round draft select of USC, Vera-Tucker has established himself because the Jets’ high offensive lineman in 4 seasons at MetLife Stadium. His absence would depart them with a considerable gap on the inside of their offensive line
How will Jets change Vera-Tucker?
Vera-Tucker was named to the All-Rookie staff in 2021 regardless of permitting 42 quarterback pressures, per Professional Soccer Focus. Since then, he has by no means allowed greater than 16 in a season.
Changing him can be a troublesome problem, however the Jets do have a number of choices.
Xavier Newman is listed because the backup proper guard, although he has began solely 10 video games in his three-year profession.
Extra possible is that the Jets transfer both Joe Tippmann or Josh Myers from heart to protect. Myers is the backup heart, however took first-team reps throughout coaching camp when left guard John Simpson handled an damage, enabling Tippmann to maneuver to protect.
Search for the Jets to slip Tippmann over to the proper aspect in response to this setback. Backup deal with Max Mitchell additionally has the pliability to play guard if the Jets view him as a greater choice.
