FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) — New York Jets right guard Alijah Vera-Tucker has a torn triceps and will miss the season, coach Aaron Glenn announced Thursday.
Glenn said Vera-Tucker is facing a seven-month rehabilitation from the injury, which will require surgery.
The offensive lineman was listed Wednesday on the team’s injury report as not participating in practice — an estimation since the Jets didn’t have an on-field session — with a triceps issue.
Word came as the Jets prepare to open their season against
Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers at home.
It's a huge blow for New York's offensive line, considered a strength entering the season. Glenn said he's still evaluating how the Jets will make up for the loss of Vera-Tucker.
Joe Tippmann, who has started at center the past two seasons, could take his spot at right guard and Josh Myers could play center. Tippmann and Myers have been in a positional competition for the center job throughout training camp. Both are listed as the possible starter on the team’s unofficial depth chart this week and Glenn has said only that they’re both still competing.
The 26-year-old Vera-Tucker is perhaps the Jets’ best all-around offensive lineman. He has played well at multiple positions but has struggled with injuries since being drafted 14th overall in 2021 out of Southern California.
___
AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL
