Even at full strength, the Jets would have been major underdogs Sunday afternoon against the Patriots, and for the second straight week it seems unlikely Adam Gase’s team will be close to whole.
Outside linebacker Jordan Jenkins (calf) was ruled out on Friday, while middle linebacker C.J. Mosley (groin), rookie defensive lineman Quinnen Williams (ankle) and wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (hamstring/knee) were all listed as doubtful after not practicing all week.
Williams and Mosley didn’t play Monday night against the Browns. Quarterback Sam Darnold (mononucleosis) will also be out, replaced by one-time third-stringer Luke Falk.
Of the players listed as doubtful, Mosley, one of the Jets’ big offseason additions, would be the most significant loss. The four-time Pro Bowler started strong, producing a pick-six, five tackles and two passes defensed, in the opener against the Bills, but hurt his groin at the end of the third quarter. He has yet to return to practice.
“I mean he’s the quarterback of our defense,” Gase said. “He’s one of the leaders of our group.”
Offensive guard Keleche Osemele (knee) didn’t practice on Friday and was list as questionable. Also questionable: WR Josh Bellamy (shoulder), RB Trenton Cannon (hamstring/ankle), CB Brian Poole (groin), OL Brian Winters (shoulder) and Kelvin Beachum (ankle), DL Steve McLendon (hip) and safety Rontez Miles (hip). They were all limited in practice on Friday.
Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams didn’t fault Jamal Adams for his late hit on quarterback Baker Mayfield that his safety said led to a $21,000 fine.
“It was a very sound tackle,” Williams said. “Now we have to make sure it becomes even more sound. But it was a sound tackle.It wasn’t anything up high.”
Adams ripped the NFL in a tweet on Wednesday night, calling the fine a “damn joke” and “bulls–t.” Adams said the officials apologized to the Jets for the flag, though a source told The Post the league was unaware of an apology and after reviewing the call deemed it accurate.
Running back Ty Montgomery had an excused absence from practice on Friday. He’s expected to play Sunday.