NY Jets’ Sauce Gardner, D.J. Reed practice fully on Wednesday

Both of the New York Jets’ starting cornerbacks practiced fully while in the concussion protocol

The New York Jets‘ defense is on the verge of getting their star corners back on the field.

Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed practiced in full on Wednesday. Brandin Echols also fully practiced, while Justin Hardee was not listed on the injury report.

Both Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed fully practiced on Wednesday. #Jets pic.twitter.com/GpBMG4UWUG

— Antwan V. Staley (@antwanstaley) October 25, 2023

This is great news for the Jets, as Gardner and Reed returning will allow the defense to function at its highest level. Robert Saleh initially stated that the pair would be game-time decisions, as they are still in the concussion protocol. Still, logging a full practice on Wednesday is a strong sign that both players will be back on the field for the Week 8 matchup with the Giants.

Echols’s return also gives the defense its entire group of defensive backs. Hardee being back on the field shores up the Jets’ special teams coverage units.

A close to full-strength Jets’ defense will give the Jets a considerable advantage over the Giants’ offense. The defensive line should be able to attack a severely depleted Giants offensive line and pressure Daniel Jones or Tyrod Taylor. With a fully healthy secondary, the Jets can shut down their opponent’s offensive weapons and make it very hard for them to move the ball.

The Jets have already shown they can win when depleted on defense, as they defeated the Philadelphia Eagles with Bryce Hall and Craig James as their starters at cornerback. With their main starters back in the fold, the Jets’ defense has a chance to shut down the Giants’ offense and give the team a great shot to win on Sunday.