As training camps progress and the preseason grinds on, the physical toll on NFL players becomes increasingly evident. For the New York Jets, protecting their assets and managing injuries have become paramount discussions, especially concerning their offensive line. Starting right guard Mekhi Becton has found himself in the spotlight once again after prematurely exiting practice with a right leg injury.
Having sported a brace on his right knee last season, Becton's recent early exit has stirred concerns among the Jets' coaching staff and fanbase alike. Indications had already begun to surface in previous practice sessions where Becton had been seen favoring the same leg. In a straightforward acknowledgment of his resilience, Becton stated, "I finished practice." When pressed about his condition, his concise response was simply, "good."
Injury Concerns Mount for the Eagles
Parallel to the Jets' situation, the Philadelphia Eagles are facing their own set of challenges on the offensive line. Guard Landon Dickerson's perseverance was on display when he hobbled through most of the drills, a testament to his determination. Despite the rigors of a tough 1-on-1 rep with Milton Williams, which left him limping, Dickerson's resolve did not waver. He finished the session despite his apparent discomfort but had to momentarily leave practice due to a knee injury. Fortunately for the Eagles, he returned later the same session.
Dickerson's recent history with injuries only compounds the concern. Earlier in the training camp, he was sidelined by a lacerated toe. Nevertheless, his resilience showed again as he hasn't missed a single day of open practices since returning from the toe injury.
Second-Team Challenges
As if the situation wasn’t complicated enough, second-team guard Tyler Steen is currently grappling with an ankle injury. Steen aggravated the injury during the second preseason game, leaving a gap in the lineup that needed to be filled promptly. Brett Toth has since stepped up, taking on first-team right guard responsibilities in Steen's absence. Toth's adaptability and readiness have been crucial, especially during a period where several key players were absent from practice.
Missing in Action
The list of absentees from Day 14 of practice is notable. Key players missing included Gabe Hall, Matt Hennessy, E.J. Jenkins, Lane Johnson, Joseph Ngata, Moro Ojomo, Albert Okwuegbunam, Caden Sterns, John Ross, and Johnny Wilson. While the specific reasons for each absence vary, the cumulative effect undeniably impacts the team's practice dynamics and preparation for the upcoming season.
Practice Schedule
Looking ahead, the Eagles are scheduled for a full practice on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, with a walkthrough planned for Monday. This schedule adjustment aims to balance intense preparation with adequate recovery, a strategy that might help in managing the current spate of injuries.
As both the Jets and the Eagles navigate these injury setbacks, the coaching staffs for each team are undoubtedly assessing their strategies to ensure players like Becton, Dickerson, and Steen can recuperate without compromising the team's performance. The coming weeks will be telling as to how these injury narratives will unfold and what impact they will have on the teams' fortunes in the season ahead.