Jets Defensive Lineman David Onyemata Undergoes Surgery, Placed on IR
The veteran defensive lineman is expected to return later this season after core muscle surgery.
The New York Jets will be without starting defensive lineman David Onyemata for several weeks as he recovers from core muscle surgery, coach Aaron Glenn announced Wednesday. Onyemata has been placed on Injured Reserve.
Despite the setback, Glenn expressed confidence that Onyemata, who signed a one-year deal with the Jets in March, will be able to return to play at some point during the current season. The surgery is not considered season-ending.
With Onyemata sidelined, Jowon Briggs is expected to step in as a starter on the defensive line. Briggs recently recorded four tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble in a game against the Packers.
The Jets' defensive line may also see the return of Joseph Ossai, who practiced on a limited basis Wednesday. Ossai has been managing a left leg injury sustained in late August. Last season, he registered five sacks and two forced fumbles in 14 games with the Bengals.
In other injury news, wide receiver and special teamer Arian Smith has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after suffering a torn ACL. The Jets' receiving corps is already thin, with rookie Omar Cooper Jr. also sidelined.