Jets' All-Pro defensive tackle sitting out joint practice vs. Panthers

The New York Jets appear to be taking a cautious approach with their star defensive tackle during the preseason road trip.

All-Pro Quinnen Williams is not participating in the Jets' joint practice against the Carolina Panthers , according to head coach Robert Saleh.

"We're not going to have Quinnen up today," said Saleh on Thursday morning in Charlotte. "He's dealing with a, he's got a sore shoulder, so didn't feel like it was necessary to get him rolling."

Saleh insisted that Williams' shoulder issue is no cause for worry.

"No, we're not concerned. If this was a game week, we'd be rolling. No concern," said the fourth-year head coach.

Williams has been a full participant in practice, but did not dress for last Saturday's preseason opener against the Washington Commanders . With the 26-year-old franchise player on the sidelines Thursday, New York's rotational defensive tackles will see increased opportunity to compete against the Panthers' first-team offensive line. In addition to Solomon Thomas, Jets' newcomers Javon Kinlaw and Leki Fotu are expected to take a healthy numbers of reps.

"They've got a really good interior three [offensive linemen]. For Kinlaw to get out here and go against different bodies. Same thing with Leki and Solly and all the other guys. It's a really good opportunity all the way across the board," said Saleh.

After going at it on the practice field for the second summer in a row, the Jets and Panthers will contest an exhibition game on August 17 at 7 p.m. ET in Charlotte.

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