The New York Jets will enter Week 1 as pretty big underdogs against the Carolina Panthers on the road. But they may be even bigger underdogs after what just happened with one of their starting wide receivers.
On Friday, NFL Network insiders reported that Jets wide receiver Jamison Crowder has tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, Crowder’s status with the Jets for Week 1 is now in question.
Per ESPN’s Rich Cimini, Crowder’s vaccination status will determine how much time he has to miss before being allowed back at practice. The Jets reportedly believe that Crowder’s positive test is an isolated case and not a wider locker room issue.
Crowder was the Jets’ leading wide receiver in 2020. He had 59 receptions for 699 yards and six touchdowns on the team’s otherwise anemic offense.
Jets WR Jamison Crowder has tested positive for COVID-19, a source confirmed (as NFL Network reported). He will go on the COVID list. Availability for Week 1 could be in jeopardy, depending on vaccination status and when he tested positive. #Jets
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) September 3, 2021
If Jamison Crowder was unvaccinated, he’ll be sidelined for at least 10 days – which will keep him from playing against the Panthers. If he was vaccinated, he may be allowed back on the team if he has two negative test that are 24 hours apart.
The Jets have few proven wide receivers on their lineup for the coming season. Needless to say, Jets fans will have their fingers crossed that Crowder is back in time.
If Crowder isn’t able to go, Jets rookie wide receiver Elijah Moore might see an increased role. The second-round pick out of Ole Miss wasn’t projected to have a huge role in his rookie year, but he plays the slot well and has shown great chemistry with rookie QB Zach Wilson.
How would Jamison Crowder’s absence affect the Jets’ chances of winning in Week 1?
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