New York Jets' seasoned right tackle Morgan Moses is set to miss a couple of games following a knee injury that has rocked the team's offensive line. The blow came during the Jets' Week 3 clash against the New England Patriots, a game in which Moses was brought down by defensive lineman Deatrich Wise Jr. and edge rusher Josh Uche.
The 33-year-old sustained the injury during a crucial second-and-25 play from the New England 46-yard line. Moses was involved in a collision that led to a sack by Uche late in the third quarter, causing him to limp off the field. The veteran tackle was ultimately taken to the locker room, where further evaluation confirmed he would be sidelined for upcoming games.
Head coach Robert Saleh addressed the media confirming that Moses will "miss a couple of games due to a knee injury he suffered during the Week 3 win over New England." Saleh added that while Moses would not be placed on injured reserve, indicating that the injury is not as severe as initially feared, his absence would still be keenly felt. "While he'll miss time, Moses won't be out long enough to put him on injured reserve," Saleh said, signaling hope for a quick return.
From Baltimore to New York
Moses was acquired from the Baltimore Ravens in an offseason trade, a strategic move by the Jets to bolster their offensive line. The trade saw the Jets send a fourth and sixth-round pick to Baltimore in exchange for Moses, who has made an immediate impact in his short tenure with the team. The Jets also received a fourth-round pick in the transaction, highlighting the team’s aggressive approach to build a more formidable unit.
Before this setback, Moses had started at right tackle through the Jets' first three games of the regular season, showcasing his reliability and experience. His contributions were pivotal in providing quarterback Zach Wilson the protection needed to navigate the trenches.
A Tactical Shift
With Moses sidelined, the Jets will now look to Olu Fashanu to fill the void. The rookie, selected with the No. 11 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, will temporarily step into the right tackle position. Fashanu's readiness will be put to the test as the Jets aim to maintain their protective schemes and offensive rhythm. On the left side, veteran Tyron Smith will continue his duties, bringing stability and leadership to the offensive line.
Fashanu's elevation to the starting lineup is a significant development for the Jets, reflecting both the depth of their roster and the trust the coaching staff has in the young player's potential. His performance over the next few games could prove crucial, not just for the team’s standing but also for his own future within the NFL.
For Morgan Moses, the focus now is on recovery and a prompt return to the field. The timing of his comeback could influence the Jets' trajectory this season, as the team looks to build momentum and vie for a playoff spot. Moses' seasoned presence and skillset will be sorely missed, but the organization remains optimistic about his return and the opportunities it presents for emerging talents like Fashanu.