Oct 15, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets cornerback Michael Carter II (30) celebrates after the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Coming off back-to-back ugly losses to AFC West opponents, where the offense failed to generate a single touchdown, the New York Jets held a players only meeting, confirmed by Garrett Wilson. Then, head coach Robert Saleh doubled down and said personnel changes were coming. Most notably, third down running back Michael Carter was later waived (and claimed by Arizona the following day). This comes after two costly penalties and a drop in Las Vegas. While you can expect to see more Dalvin Cook and Breece Hall on third downs, this move will also open the door for fifth-round rookie Israel Abanikanda to have an opportunity down the stretch. Elsewhere on offense, veteran Duane Brown (hip) was not yet activated off IR, the team has until Thanksgiving day to make that choice, so he will not play. Billy Turner (finger) was also ruled out earlier in the week. Xavier Newman was not elevated off the practice squad, but Jake Hanson was, so New York will deploy their 7th starting offensive line combination in ten games. Tight end Kenny Yeboah (hamstring) returned to practice, but was not activated off IR and will be out today. Garrett Wilson (elbow) told reporters he will play today, and hopefully Nate Hackett won’t dial up any deep passes for him this week.
Defensively, Will McDonald IV (ankle) was listed as questionable, but is “expected to play” according to Sal Paolantonio of ESPN. Carl Lawson is inactive for the 5th game this season. Linebackers Chazz Surratt (ankle) and Sam Equavoen (hip) are both out for this afternoon’s game, with Marcelino McCrary-Ball getting a call up from the practice squad. Michael Carter II (hamstring), who was a late Saturday addition to the injury report, will not play. This means Brandin Echols is expected to be the nickel cornerback. Here is the full list of inactive players for the final matchup against the Bills: