The New York Jets’ revamped offensive line is already facing problems after it was confirmed that right guard and team captain Alijah Vera-Tucker suffered an arm injury that could be serious. The 26-year-old is seeking a second medical opinion, but it is not out of the question that he will have to undergo surgery.
Vera-Tucker had already been through tough situations: in 2022 he tore his triceps and in 2023 he suffered a torn Achilles tendon, which set the tone for a Jets team that finished with a 5-12 record and the offense ranked 24th in the NFL. His new injury raises uncertainty about the stability of the line and the immediate future of the offense.
A challenge for the new offensive coordinator
The blow comes at the worst possible time for Tanner Engstrand, the new offensive coordinator, who is looking to turn around the fortunes of a team that has not made the playoffs in 14 consecutive seasons. Vera-Tucker was expected to lead the right side of the line alongside rookie Armand Membou, a 154-kilogram tackle from Missouri.
Among the alternatives being considered by the coaching staff are backup guard Xavier Newman or moving tackles Chukwuma Okorafor or Max Mitchell to the interior. They are also considering moving Joe Tippmann from center. Still, none seem to offer the security that Vera-Tucker provided as a fixture on the line.
Fans talk about a “curse”
On social media, the frustration of the fans was not long in coming. “It’s amazing how cursed the Jets franchise is,” wrote one fan on X. Others added: “I’m telling you we’re cursed” or “It’s brutal to be a part of this fan base.” The general feeling is that the franchise is trapped in an endless string of misfortunes.
Injuries have been a constant for the Jets in recent years. The most painful memory is that of Aaron Rodgers, who in 2023 tore his Achilles tendon on his first offensive series with the team. Now, with Vera-Tucker in doubt, the franchise faces another blow that tests its resilience ahead of the new season.
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