The New York Jets will be getting a key contributor back ahead of their Black Friday matchup with the Miami Dolphins.
The team is activating offensive tackle Duane Brown off of injured reserve and onto its active roster, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
On the final day they could do it, the Jets are activating OT Duane Brown off injured reserve and on to their active roster, per source. A boost for their O line.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 23, 2023
The move to activate the five-time Pro Bowler comes on the final day of his 21-day practice window. The decision prevents him from having to remain on IR for the rest of the season.
Brown’s return is a welcome development for the Jets, who are dealing with a plethora of injuries on their offensive line. Tackle Mekhi Becton could miss the game against the Dolphins after suffering an ankle sprain against the Buffalo Bills last week, though he surprisingly seems to have a chance at suiting up on Friday.
The Jets also have three other offensive linemen currently on injured reserve: Alijah Vera-Tucker (Achilles), Connor McGovern (knee) and Wes Schweitzer (calf).
Dealing with so many injury issues on the offensive line would be tough for any team, but it could prove especially difficult for the Jets, who plan to start a new quarterback against the Dolphins. Zach Wilson has started in every game for New York since Aaron Rodgers was injured during the first game of the season, but the team plans to use Tim Boyle as its starting quarterback against Miami. Trevor Siemian will serve as Boyle’s backup, while Wilson has been demoted to third string.
Boyle will likely have his hands full against the Dolphins defense, but Brown’s return could help him out a bit. The Jets have lost three straight games heading into the matchup with Miami, and they currently sit at 4-6 on the season. The Dolphins, on the other hand, sit atop the AFC East with a 7-3 record and an extremely potent offense. They currently lead the league in yards per game and points per game.
The contest between the Jets and Dolphins will take place at MetLife Stadium and is set to kick off Friday at 3 p.m. EST. It’s the first of two meetings between the teams this season. The squads will also meet in Miami in Week 15.
