New York Jets starters Marcus Maye, Josh Martin and Jermaine Kearse will all likely miss Week 1 in Detroit against the Lions.
Not even the softer ways of NFL August could save the New York Jets when kicking off the brand new 2018 campaign is concerned.
The Jets will likely be without three starters when they open the season in Detroit on Monday Night Football, via the team’s official injury report. Outside linebacker Josh Martin has already been ruled out while safety Marcus Maye and wide receiver Jermaine Kearse are officially listed as doubtful.
Practice squad edge man Frankie Luvu has already been elevated to the 53-man squad in favor of fullback Lawrence Thomas. (Whether or not this is a one-week wink-wink move remains to be seen.)
It’s been a tough injury summer for the Jets. Both Kelvin Beachum and Brian Winters missed significant time along the offensive line. Maye’s been banged up since the spring, seemingly. He has a foot issue that’s not related to the offseason ankle surgery performed once the 2017 season came to a close.
Replacing Maye as the starter will most likely be Doug Middleton. Terrence Brooks is the other option. J.J. Wilcox is the third backup safety on the team but should not start opposite Jamal Adams as both players play more of a strong safety-type in-the-box role. Middleton and Brooks are centerfielders, like Maye.
Outside, it’ll either be Luvu, young Brandon Copeland or new acquisition Jeremiah Attaochu who starts opposite Jordan Jenkins.
Offensively, look for Quincy Enunwa to get the start along with Robby Anderson. When 11 personnel is on the field, it’ll be interesting to see who gets the call. If Terrelle Pryor is the guy, Enunwa will play the slot. If it’s Andre Roberts, Enunwa can remain outside while the veteran return man takes the inside role.
There’s still a possibility either Maye or Kearse suits up, but either way, this squad’s depth will be tested from the get-go in Mo-Town.
