The Jets’ offense has been dealt another massive blow on the injury front. Head coach Robert Saleh announced on Monday that offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker is out for the remainder of the season due to a triceps tear (video link). 
[RELATED: Jets RB Hall Suffers Torn ACL]
Saleh added that Vera-Tucker will require surgery to repair the damage suffered during yesterday’s win over the Broncos. The news marks another significant loss on the offensive line, a unit which was already dealing with numerous injuries in 2022.
The tackle spot has been a particularly sore one for Gang Green. Mekhi Becton was ruled out for the season prior to Week 1 due to his most recent knee injury. That precipitated the signing of veteran Duane Brown, who was unable to make his Jets debut until Week 5. George Fant, meanwhile, was slated to serve as the team’s starting right tackle after the addition of Brown, but he is on IR as a result of a knee injury. Saleh indicated that it is unlikely Fant will be activated this week.
Given the uncertainty along New York’s offensive front, Vera-Tucker has had to wear multiple hats in 2022. Seeing time at both tackle spots, along with right guard, the 2021 first-rounder has filled in as needed along the line. That marks a significant change from last season, when the USC alum played exclusively at left guard – the spot now occupied by free agent signing Laken Tomlinson.
Given a solid PFF grade of 75.2 in run blocking this year, Vera-Tucker had not fared as well in pass protection. The 23-year-old was charged with 16 pressures allowed, leading to a 61.4 rating. Still, his absence will be felt on a Jets’ offense which just lost starting running back Breece Hall for the remainder of what had been a promising season. Saleh said Cedric Ogbuehi will step in as the team’s starting right tackle.
The 5-2 Jets will look to move ahead with a depleted offense and maintain their early success beginning on Sunday when they host the Patriots.
Absolutely brutal. The Jets’ best guard AND tackle this season. And this won’t make it any easier for Wilson to grow and show something. Wilson’s composure, judgement, and time holding the ball are all things he needs to work on regardless of protection, but it’s not going to help his development or eval if he’s a sitting duck.
I thought Remmers was going to get the call, but I guess they’re giving a former first rounder a chance, first.