The New York Jets are currently facing uncertainty regarding the status of running back Breece Hall, who did not participate in practice on Wednesday due to a knee injury. His availability for the upcoming game against Seattle remains unclear. Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich revealed that Hall suffered the knee injury during the Jets’ close loss to the Indianapolis Colts on November 17, yet he managed to complete the game despite experiencing discomfort afterward. The team is opting for caution with Hall, who is their leading rusher.
“We are going to take some precautions with him today, but we will monitor his progress throughout the week,” stated Ulbrich. “We remain optimistic that he will be able to play, but we will evaluate as we go.” Hall boasts impressive statistics, with 632 rushing yards and four touchdowns, as well as 46 receptions for 401 yards and two additional touchdowns. The Jets were conducting their first full practice following a bye week, and if Hall is unable to participate, rookies Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis are the likely options to step in.
Another concern for the team is left tackle Tyron Smith, who is also absent from practice due to a neck injury. Ulbrich mentioned that Smith could be considered for placement on the injured reserve list if there is no significant improvement. Smith is in his inaugural season with the Jets after spending 13 years with the Dallas Cowboys and missed the game against the Colts after sustaining his injury in a previous match against Arizona. Olu Fashanu is expected to take over Smith’s position if he remains sidelined.
“It’s become obvious that we may need to consider what’s best for Tyron moving forward,” commented Ulbrich about Smith’s situation. “We are still gathering more information.” The specifics of Smith’s injury have not been disclosed, but Ulbrich mentioned that he is balancing his time between being at the training facility and receiving evaluations from specialists.
“He’s diligently working on his recovery,” Ulbrich noted. “He has top-notch doctors assisting him.” Fortunately for the Jets, linebacker C.J. Mosley is set to return from a herniated disk in his neck, an injury that has kept him out of action for the past four games. Ulbrich confirmed that Mosley, who was hurt during warm-ups on October 27, would be participating fully in practice on Wednesday.
“He’s going to give it a shot,” Ulbrich said about Mosley’s return. “We’ll assess his performance. Getting pads on him and ensuring he can withstand contact will be critical in determining how he responds. If all goes well, I am hopeful he will play, but if not, we’ll have to make other plans.” Additionally, it was reported that wide receiver Malachi Corley would be absent from practice due to illness, and cornerback Quan’tez Stiggers is unavailable for personal matters.