The New York Jets find themselves in a precarious situation as they head into their Week 17 matchup against the Buffalo Bills, relying on their third-string left tackle due to a series of injuries. This development presents a potential opportunity for the Bills’ struggling pass rush, which has ranked near the bottom of the league in sack percentage. With key players like AJ Epenesa and Von Miller failing to register sacks in recent weeks, the Jets' offensive line issues might be just what Buffalo needs to turn their fortunes around.
The Jets have already faced significant setbacks with the loss of two left tackles to season-ending injuries. Initially, perennial All-Pro Tyron Smith was placed on Injured Reserve, leading to rookie Olu Fashanu stepping into the role. However, Fashanu's foot injury against the Los Angeles Rams forced the Jets to promote Max Mitchell, a 2022 fourth-round pick, to the starting position. Mitchell has struggled to make his mark in the NFL, raising concerns about his ability to protect quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is dealing with an MCL sprain.
On the right side, veteran Morgan Moses is also battling a knee injury but has shown determination to play, having been upgraded to a limited participant in practice. His participation will be crucial as he faces a formidable Bills defense, particularly if he is not at full strength. With Mitchell and a potentially compromised Moses protecting Rodgers, the stage is set for Buffalo's pass rush to capitalize and potentially dominate in their upcoming divisional clash.
