The New York Jets will likely be without wide receiver Adonai Mitchell for another week. Jets coach Aaron Glenn announced on Wednesday that Mitchell underwent a "small procedure" on his injured right hand finger, despite earlier stating that no procedure had been performed. Mitchell was not practicing again on Wednesday, and Glenn categorized him as "week to week," which generally indicates he will not play. Glenn noted, "The good thing is, man, he’s moving his fingers around really, really well, and I’m still going to put him on this week-to-week deal."
Mitchell sustained the finger injury during practice on September 24, when he caught his finger in a teammate’s jersey. Initially, Glenn downplayed the injury, but Mitchell was later seen with a large cast on his hand. Glenn explained that Mitchell delayed the procedure for about a week to assess his progress before deciding to proceed with it. This delay may have influenced the Jets' decision not to place Mitchell on injured reserve, which would have allowed them to open a roster spot.
Sunday's game against the New England Patriots will mark the fourth game Mitchell has missed. If the Jets had anticipated this extended absence, they could have utilized the injured reserve option.
In addition to Mitchell, running back Breece Hall (quad), edge rusher Joseph Ossai (ankle), and offensive guard Dylan Parham (knee) did not practice and are likely to miss the upcoming game. Tight end Kenyon Sadiq (concussion) was limited in practice, indicating a potential return. Linebacker Kiko Mauigoa (quad) fully participated in practice.
The Jets also opened the practice window for rookie wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., who has been on injured reserve since injuring his ankle in Week 1 against the Titans. Glenn emphasized the importance of Cooper getting practice reps, stating, "Obviously, he’s a really good player, but you never want any rookie to actually miss time because the reps are valuable for these guys."
For the second consecutive week, Glenn opted for a walk-through instead of a full practice, believing it benefits the team. Meanwhile, the Patriots have opened the practice window for wide receiver A.J. Brown, who has been sidelined with a high-ankle sprain, and cornerback Christian Gonzalez is expected to return after missing two games due to a shoulder injury. Additionally, rookie edge rusher David Bailey was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his three-sack performance against the Browns. The Jets have also signed linebacker Troy Reeder to their practice squad.