It isn't season-ending, but the Jets will be down a starter along their defensive line for the next several weeks.
On Wednesday, coach Aaron Glenn announced that veteran defensive tackle David Onyemata is undergoing core-muscle surgery after being placed on injured reserve. Glenn expects Onyemata, who signed a one-year deal with the Jets in March, to return this season at some point.
Jowon Briggs is expected to start in Onyemata's place. He had a strong game against the Packers , notching four tackles, a sack and a forced fumble. Rookie Darrell Jackson Jr. , a fourth-round pick out of Florida State , may also see more reps up front.
Jets defensive lineman David Onyemata (93) chases Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward (1) during the third quarter at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
The Jets could also be getting back defensive lineman Joseph Ossai . He practiced on a limited basis Wednesday. Ossai has been dealing with a left foot injury he suffered in late August .
"Very close, very close," Glenn said, when asked about Ossai's status. "So, we'll see how that actually [progresses] during the week, but man, he'll be practicing today."
In other injury news, wide receiver/special teamer Arian Smith suffered a torn ACL in Sunday's loss to the Packers and is out for the season. The Jets are very thin at receiver with rookie Omar Cooper Jr. on IR with a high ankle sprain.
Running back/kick returner Kene Nwangwu (back), tight end Mason Taylor (thumb), safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (groin) and linebacker Kiko Mauigoa (quad) didn't practice Wednesday.
Glenn addressed the recent addition of quarterback Will Levis .
"A good player that we feel like we can develop," the coach said. "He'll be on our practice squad, he'll get reps against our defense."
Levis, a second-round pick by the Titans in 2023, was released by Tennessee at the end of training camp. He missed all of 2025 following shoulder surgery.
