Jets’ Jermaine Johnson Returns Against Broncos
HERTFORDSHIRE, England — The Jets’ struggling defense is set to welcome back a vital player this Sunday as they face the Broncos.
Edge rusher Jermaine Johnson is making his return after being sidelined for three games due to an ankle injury. It’s been tough for him to watch the Jets struggle, especially since they currently hold a 0-5 record with the worst defense in the NFL. They’re allowing 31.4 points per game and haven’t managed to secure a single takeaway.
Before heading to England on Monday, Johnson mentioned that the defensive squad held a meeting to address their issues.
“We’re committed to full accountability,” Johnson expressed. “We had a players-only meeting. The consensus is clear—we need to improve. We can’t be the reason for our losses. There’s too much talent here for that.”
He continued, “Our coach has established a strong culture, and it’s our job to support that. We take responsibility for our performance.”
Johnson’s return could bolster a pass rush that has lacked consistency. So far this season, the Jets have managed only seven sacks, with four occurring in the opening game against the Steelers. He had previously scored a sack against the Cowboys, but it came at a moment when quarterback Dak Prescott chose to run rather than throw.
Last season was challenging for Johnson, who recorded seven and a half sacks in 2023 but played in only two games due to a torn Achilles tendon.
“This isn’t just about talent,” Johnson said, pointing to his head. “It’s about strategy. I’m excited to return and help ensure we can execute on the field effectively. We need to show what we can do.”
Injuries have certainly tested Johnson’s resilience. After recovering from his Achilles injury, he returned for the season opener but struggled against the Bills in Week 2 and had to miss the last three games. While he didn’t specify which ankle was injured, he hinted at concerns over re-injuring his Achilles.
“I just tweaked it a bit, and I want to ensure it’s not connected to previous issues,” Johnson stated, adding that Achilles injuries can resurface quickly. “So, it’s crucial to handle it correctly. When you’re out there, you just want to stay healthy and perform well.”
The Jets are yearning for Johnson’s presence; the backups filling in have had limited success. Coach Aaron Glenn expressed satisfaction in having the 2022 first-round pick back at practice.
During a media session, Johnson was asked how he might entice local fans to support the Jets. He noted the team’s determination to turn their season around on Sunday.
“Defensively, we haven’t presented a strong product,” Johnson admitted. “We definitely want to give fans something to cheer for when the game arrives.”
