Aaron Rodgers celebrated with a fist pump as he walked off the field after securing a win in Tennessee, knowing that the New York Jets had just managed to get a victory.
It was a close game, but the quarterback understood that while they won, there’s still room for improvement.
“We’re not quite there yet, but good teams can close out games in tough environments,” Rodgers said after the 24-17 win on Sunday. “We will be really thankful for this one down the road.”
Now, the Jets face a significant injury challenge as they prepare for their third game in 11 days to start the season.
Edge rusher Jermaine Johnson announced on Monday via social media that he has torn his right Achilles tendon.
The 25-year-old Johnson shared a 22-second video on X and Instagram, revealing that an MRI confirmed the injury he suffered when he was carted off the field in the third quarter.
“We’re in great spirits,” Johnson said. “We’re going to get back right and this is just another opportunity to brag about what I came from, so let’s get it.”
The injury to Johnson heightens the need for the Jets and Haason Reddick to resolve his contract situation. Reddick, who was acquired from Philadelphia in March, has been away from the team since April 1 while negotiating an extension.
The defense has not lived up to expectations, having given up 401 total yards in the season opener against San Francisco and 300 yards at Tennessee.
However, there was some improvement in run defense. After allowing 49ers backup Jordan Mason to rush for a career-high 147 yards, the Jets managed to limit Tony Pollard to 62 yards on 17 carries. Tennessee gained 130 rushing yards in total, but 38 of those came from quarterback Will Levis scrambling, who was sacked four times.
