Speaking to reporters ahead of Monday’s training camp practice, New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn provided several injury updates.
“[Kris] Boyd, X [Xavier Gipson], both of those guys have shoulder [injuries], they will be out this week. John Simpson will be out this week; he has a back [injury]. Quinnen [Williams] will be out with a calf injury, Malachi Moore has been starting to get back in practice this week, so we will see how that goes for this week,” said Glenn.
The timing is especially unfortunate for cornerback Kris Boyd and wide receiver Xavier Gipson, who both sustained shoulder injuries and will miss the week. Unlike Quinnen Williams or John Simpson, they’re fighting for roster spots.
Both Boyd and Gipson are firmly on the roster bubble, and extended absences open the door for their reps to be taken from those who are healthy. For fringe players, every practice rep matters, and every missed opportunity hurts.
Rookie defensive back Malachi Moore is nursing an oblique injury but remains a player to watch. After an impressive start to camp, Moore has shown enough potential to challenge Tony Adams for the starting strong safety job. If he can return to full practice soon and make a consistent impact during the preseason, the Alabama product could force his way into the Week 1 starting lineup.
With the Jets set to open the preseason Saturday against the Green Bay Packers, getting back on the field is critical for players like Boyd and Gipson, with roster spots on the line.