The NY Jets defense suffered a significant blow on Monday when it was revealed that standout edge rusher Jermaine Johnson had suffered a torn Achilles in the team's 24-17 win over the Tennessee Titans in Week 2.
Johnson's injury further emphasizes the Jets' issues along the defensive line and could complicate matters with Haason Reddick. But while the injury is obviously brutal for the Jets, it's equally as devastating for the player.
Johnson was coming off a breakout 2023 season in which he was named to his first Pro Bowl after finishing with a career-high 7.5 sacks. He was expected to take on an even more important role in 2024 following the departures of Bryce Huff and John Franklin-Myers in the offseason.
Now, Johnson will miss an entire year of his career with one of the most devastating injuries an edge rusher can sustain. But never mind that. Despite the unimaginable tragedy Johnson was forced to endure, he still found the energy to offer a heartfelt and upbeat message to Jets fans after the game.
Thank everyone for all the prayers and support! This is not a dark time for me ,although there will be dark days ahead, this is Gods way for me to not only grow as a man, person and player but to also inspire others to as well!! 11 will be back and better, BOOK IT🫡🙏🏾🖤… pic.twitter.com/DZm2fy6ggQ
— Jermaine Johnson II (@ii_jermaine) September 16, 2024
Jermaine Johnson sends upbeat message to NY Jets fans after tragic injury update
Johnson's postgame interview following his injury is nothing short of remarkable. Yes, the same individual who had suffered a torn Achilles mere hours earlier stood (yes, stood!) in front of reporters in the Jets' locker room fielding questions with a smile on his face.
Johnson told reporters that he was in good spirits and that he had gotten all of his crying out on the field. He told fans to stay positive and that this was "just another opportunity" in the video he posted to social media on Monday.
Even Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers was impressed, remarking that Johnson was handling his injury "a lot better" than he had when speaking to reporters after the game. Rodgers, of course, knows a thing or two about devastating Achilles injuries.
The degree of professionalism and the overall mindset with which Johnson has approached his tragic injury is nothing short of remarkable. He's earned the praise of his teammates, fans, and media alike.
Much respect to Jermaine Johnson for talking with the media today, btw. It's pretty rare that anyone (understandably) would speak to us after suffering an injury like that. He definitely didn't have to — but did anyway. https://t.co/r1WusiAzjH
— Zack Rosenblatt (@ZackBlatt) September 15, 2024
Solomon Thomas referred to Johnson as the "heartbeat of the team" after Sunday's game. Johnson's teammates were visibly shaken when consoling him on the field as he was carted off. It's clear how much the former Florida State star means to this team.
Achilles tears can be career-altering for edge rushers like Johnson. Just look at Carl Lawson as an example of a once-dominant edge rusher who was never able to bounce back from the catastrophic injury he suffered.
Despite that — despite the unthinkable anguish Johnson must be going through — he's remained positive, upbeat, and professional. He took time to talk to reporters after the game. He's viewing the injury as an opportunity instead of a setback.That mindset is extraordinary and a testament to Johnson's character. Get well soon No. 11, the comeback tour starts no
