Two New York Jets' depth pieces injured in preseason victory at Carolina

   

The New York Jets lost two depth players in the first half of Saturday night's preseason road win over the Carolina Panthers.

Irvin Charles (19)

Defensive back Jarrick Bernard-Converse and wide receiver Irv Charles exited due to injury and did not return. The former suffered a groin injury while the latter has a hip problem.

After starting the preseason opener, Bernard-Converse came off the bench in Carolina and made immediate contributions. The 2023 sixth-round draft pick totaled four tackles in 11 defensive snaps. He also took three reps on special teams.

"He's been nursing it. We'll see the severity once we get back" said Saleh following the 15-12 victory.

Bernard-Converse is in the midst of what appears to be a successful transition from safety to cornerback. He's battling for the chance to back up Sauce Gardner and DJ Reed.

Although low on the wide receiver depth chart, Charles has proven highly valuable to the Jets on special teams. The former undrafted prospect logged 236 special teams snaps in 2023, mainly as a gunner on kick coverage. With Pro Bowler Justin Hardee having left in free agency, Charles has seen his value increase this offseason.

Charles, who totaled four snaps on specials, made the tackle on the opening kickoff Saturday night.

"He's dealing with a hip. I'm not sure what the severity is, though," said Saleh.

The 27-year-old Charles, who played 12 games in 2023, logged 10 offensive snaps prior to exiting the exhibition contest. He was not targeted and committed one false start penalty.

The Jets are scheduled to return to practice on Monday, August 19 in Florham Park, where Saleh will likely provide more information on the injured players.