Philadelphia, PA – The New York Jets suffered a major setback on defense as Pro Bowl cornerback Sauce Gardner was ruled out with a concussion, leaving the team without their starting corners for their upcoming game against the Philadelphia Eagles. D.J. Reed was previously declared out with a concussion, and Brandin Echols is also sidelined due to a hamstring injury. As a result, the Jets’ secondary is in disarray as they prepare to face the formidable receiving duo of A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.

The Jets will likely rely on Bryce Hall and Craig James as their starting cornerbacks. James, who was elevated from the practice squad, will fill in for Reed. Hall, who replaced Reed last week, made a significant impact by scoring a game-clinching touchdown on a fumble recovery in the fourth quarter. Michael Carter II is expected to play as the slot corner and may also see some playing time in base packages.

Tae Hayes is the only other available cornerback on the Jets’ roster. He has been elevated from the practice squad to provide additional depth at the position.

Gardner, the reigning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, unexpectedly appeared on the injury report with an “illness.” The team initially believed he would be fine, but he has now been ruled out due to a concussion. The absence of Gardner adds to the growing list of injuries for the Jets, who have already lost quarterback Aaron Rodgers and tackle Alijah Vera-Tucker for the season.

In addition to the injuries on defense, the Jets also placed Pro Bowl special teams player Justin Hardee on injured reserve after he underwent hamstring surgery. The mounting injuries pose significant challenges for the team as they strive to overcome adversity and find success on the field.

The New York Jets will face the Philadelphia Eagles without their starting cornerbacks, Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed. With additional injuries on defense and the loss of key players for the season, the Jets face an uphill battle in their upcoming game. Despite the challenges, the team will look to rise to the occasion and find ways to compete against their formidable opponents.