NFLSep 26
Jets elevate Sterling Shepard as receiver injuries mount
Adonai Mitchell’s uncertain status against Detroit prompted New York to add Shepard and Jamaal Pritchett to its active roster.
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Reinforcements arrive for Detroit matchup
The New York Jets bolstered their depleted receiving group Saturday, elevating Sterling Shepard from the practice squad and signing Jamaal Pritchett to the active roster ahead of Sunday’s game against the Detroit Lions. Shepard is expected to make his Jets debut, while Pritchett is available for his NFL debut. The moves come with starting receiver Adonai Mitchell questionable because of a finger injury and three receivers already on injured reserve, including Omar Cooper Jr., who has an ankle injury. Mitchell was added to the injury report Thursday after catching his finger in a teammate’s jersey during practice. He participated Friday with his right hand heavily wrapped and his index and middle fingers apparently splinted. Coach Aaron Glenn did not specify the injury.
Mitchell’s availability shapes receiving options
Mitchell leads New York with 15 targets and has become its primary deep threat. His nine catches and 123 receiving yards rank behind only Garrett Wilson on the team. If Mitchell is unavailable or restricted against Detroit, Isaiah Williams and Shepard would likely take the next receiving roles behind Wilson. Shepard, 33, joined the practice squad two weeks ago. The 10-year veteran recorded 39 receptions for 371 yards and one touchdown with Tampa Bay last season. New York also has undrafted rookie Malik McClain, who has yet to appear in an NFL game. Pritchett offers a kick-return option with Kene Nwangwu ruled out Saturday because of a back injury. Tight end Mason Taylor will also miss the matchup with a thumb injury.
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