Ahead of their Week 9 Thursday Night Football game against the Houston Texans, the New York Jets have placed two of their key players, wide receiver Allen Lazard and defensive tackle Leki Fotu, on Injured Reserve (IR). This move sidelines both players for a minimum of four weeks, marking the second consecutive game they will miss due to injuries.
The Jets made the most of the roster flexibility, signing kicker Riley Patterson and offensive lineman Alec Lindstrom from the Practice Squad to fill the void. Patterson, a proven kicker in the NFL with a career field-goal success rate of 88.9%, will replace veteran Greg Zuerlein, who was also moved to IR. Patterson recently competed for the role and ultimately emerged as the team’s top choice, following his stint with the Washington Commanders during the 2024 preseason.
Lindstrom, meanwhile, has made an impression since joining the Jets on October 9, following a strong performance in the United Football League this past spring. Previously a rookie with the Dallas Cowboys in 2022, Lindstrom adds depth to New York’s offensive line, providing support in the absence of Lazard and Fotu.
Lazard’s injury originates from an October 20 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite playing 58% of the offensive snaps and making four catches for 58 yards, Lazard was later ruled out of practice leading up to the Jets’ matchup against the New England Patriots. His absence leaves an opportunity for embattled receiver Mike Williams, who, amid trade rumors, may see an increase in snaps as Lazard recovers.
Fotu’s season has been a challenging one as well. The run-stopping defensive tackle has appeared in just two games since joining the Jets, initially sidelined by a hamstring injury that carried over from training camp. He made his debut in Week 6 against the Buffalo Bills but is now dealing with a knee issue, resulting in his placement on IR.
With these roster adjustments, the Jets aim to maintain their momentum in the AFC East as they gear up for a crucial Thursday night face-off with Houston. The game will be a true test of the team’s adaptability as they navigate injuries to key players.
