Rookie Brandon Codrington played a significant role in the New York Jets’ 15-12 victory over the Carolina Panthers with an impressive 63-yard kickoff return and a 31-yard punt return that set up crucial scores. The Jets relied on kicker Austin Seibert, who nailed four field goals, including a remarkable 52-yarder, and Greg Zuerlein contributed one as well.

The game saw both teams resting most of their starters and key reserves, including Aaron Rodgers for the Jets and Bryce Young for the Panthers following an intense joint practice earlier in the week. The backup quarterbacks Tyrod Taylor and Andy Dalton also took the night off, allowing rookies Andrew Peasley for the Jets and Jack Plummer for the Panthers to start, although both struggled throughout the game.

Peasley completed 7 of 11 passes for 33 yards in the first half, while Martinez, the UFL MVP, took over in the second half for the Jets and managed to lead three scoring drives despite an early interception. Plummer, on the other hand, faced challenges and was limited to 42 yards on 11-of-18 passing for the Panthers.

Carolina’s only touchdown came from a short run by running back Dillon Johnson on the game’s final play. Codrington’s dynamic returns showcased his skills under the NFL’s new kickoff rules, with a remarkable run on the second-half kickoff and a creative punt return that helped set up scores for the Jets.

In terms of roster management, the Panthers rested 38 players, while the Jets had 32 players sitting out. In terms of injuries, Jets’ CB Jarrick Bernard-Converse and WR Irvin Charles exited the game in the first half, not returning, while Panthers’ CB Anthony Brown and LB Tae Davis also left the game in the second half due to injuries.

Looking ahead, the Jets will host the New York Giants next Saturday, while the Panthers will play against Buffalo next Saturday.