'We're in Great Spirits!' Jets' Johnson Confirms Achilles Tear

The New York Jets entered the year needing edge rusher Jermaine Johnson to take the next step in his development and become a key cog to the pass rush.

Two weeks into the season and it’s clear that ascension won’t be coming.

In Sunday’s 24-17 win over the Tennessee Titans, Johnson was carted off with an apparent lower-leg injury. The team’s worst fears were confirmed on Monday. He has torn his Achilles.

“I did tear my Achilles, but we’re good man,” Johnson said after his MRI . “We’re in good spirits. We’re gonna get back right. And this is just another opportunity to brag about what I came from. So let’s get it.”

Johnson’s season is over, and like any Achilles tear, the risk doesn’t stop there. But Johnson’s mind is in the right place in the wake of such devastating news.

“Thank everyone for all the prayers and support!” Johnson tweeted. “This is not a dark time for me, although there will be dark days ahead, this is God’s way for me to not only grow as a man, person and player but to also inspire others as well!! 11 will be back and better, BOOK IT.”

Johnson isn’t the only Jets star to suffer an Achilles injury in recent years. Offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker tore his Achilles in Denver last season, and has made a full recovery. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ injury defined the 2023 campaign – now he’s a symbol of hope for a New York team with Super Bowl aspirations.

Having those experiences intertwined in his supporting cast is important for his long-term status. But in his absence, the Jets have very real short-team questions to answer.

Without a strong pass rush, it’s easy to see a defense so reliant on rushing four to take a step back; and without Haason Reddick, there is little hope for reinforcements. New York is deep along the defensive line, but that was supposed to make up for the veteran, not both of the team’s top edge rushers.

Expect Takk McKinley to step up in Johnson’s absence and hope to continue the momentum he created this summer.

Related: Jets Locker Room Emotional Response to Jermaine Johnson's Potential Season-Ending Injury

It’s nearly impossible to beat quality quarterbacks without a strong pass rush, and the AFC is loaded with passers capable of taking home a title. Once again, the injury gods have struck down on the Jets’ hopes, but they have the time and the talent to have a reasonable shot at overcoming adversity.

New York was never going to stay healthy for 17 games. How this roster responds will play a significant role in shaping the rest of the season.