Set Absence for Key Members of the New York Jets

The New York Jets have announced set absences for several key members ahead of the final stretch of the 2025 NFL season, a development that threatens to disrupt their late-season momentum and complicate their slim playoff hopes. From a star wide receiver sidelined by a knee injury to a top defensive coach out for personal reasons, these absences force the Jets to adjust their lineup and game plan on short notice. Set Absence for Key Members of the New York Jets breaks down each key absence, the reasons behind it, the expected timeline for returns, and how the team plans to fill the gaps. For a Jets team already navigating injuries, these set absences aren’t just logistical challenges—they’re tests of depth and resilience that will shape the final weeks of their season.

Set Absence for Key Members of the New York Jets begins with the most impactful loss: wide receiver Garrett Wilson, who will miss the next 3-4 games after undergoing minor knee surgery to repair a meniscus tear suffered in Week 15 against the Miami Dolphins. Wilson, the Jets’ leading receiver (78 catches for 954 yards and 6 touchdowns), sustained the injury while making a tackle after a interception, and an MRI later confirmed the need for surgery. Jets head coach Robert Saleh addressed the absence in a press conference: “Garrett is a game-changer for us, so losing him hurts—but we have confidence in the guys behind him to step up. The surgery was successful, and our medical staff expects him to be back for the playoffs if we qualify.” Wilson himself took to social media to reassure fans: “I’ll be back stronger than ever. In the meantime, let’s go Jets—time for the next man up.” The absence leaves a significant gap in the Jets’ passing game, which has relied on Wilson’s ability to draw double teams and create separation deep.

Another key absence highlighted in Set Absence for Key Members of the New York Jets is defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, who will step away from the team for 2 weeks to attend to a family matter. Ulbrich, who has overseen the Jets’ defensive resurgence this season (the unit has jumped from 28th to 15th in total defense), will miss games against the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills—two critical matchups for the Jets’ playoff chances. Assistant defensive coordinator Tony Oden will serve as interim coordinator during Ulbrich’s absence, a role he previously filled in 2024 when Ulbrich was sidelined by COVID-19. Saleh emphasized that the transition will be smooth: “Tony knows our defense inside and out—he’s been with Jeff every step of the way this season. The players are familiar with his voice, and our scheme won’t change. We’re supporting Jeff fully and looking forward to having him back soon.” Oden, for his part, said he’s ready to lead: “This is a testament to the culture Jeff and Coach Saleh have built—we’re a team, and we step up for each other when needed.”

Set Absence for Key Members of the New York Jets also details the expected absence of starting right tackle Mekhi Becton, who is in the NFL’s concussion protocol after taking a helmet-to-helmet hit in Week 15. Becton, a vital part of the Jets’ offensive line that has improved its pass protection in recent weeks, has already missed 2 days of practice and is unlikely to play against the Chiefs. Rookie tackle Carter Warren, a fourth-round draft pick out of Pittsburgh, will start in Becton’s place—a promotion that marks Warren’s first NFL start. For the New York Jets, Becton’s absence is a major concern, as the Chiefs boast one of the league’s top pass rushes (led by defensive end Chris Jones, who has 12 sacks this season). Offensive line coach Chris Strausser acknowledged the challenge: “Carter has worked hard all season, and he’s ready for this opportunity. We’ve spent extra time this week preparing him for Jones and the Chiefs’ defense—we’re confident he’ll hold his own.” Warren said he’s leaning on veterans like left tackle Duane Brown for advice: “Duane has been teaching me since training camp. He told me to stay calm, trust my technique, and remember that I belong here.”

A fourth set absence, explored in Set Absence for Key Members of the New York Jets, is special teams ace Justin Hardee, who will miss 1-2 games with a hamstring strain. Hardee, who leads the Jets in special teams tackles (18) and plays a key role in kickoff and punt coverage, suffered the injury during a punt return in Week 15. His absence leaves a gap in a special teams unit that has already struggled this season (ranking 29th in punt return average and 25th in kickoff coverage). Rookie safety Trey Dean III will take over Hardee’s special teams responsibilities, while the Jets have also signed veteran special teams player Cody Davis to the practice squad as insurance. For the New York Jets, special teams consistency is critical in close games—and Hardee’s absence could leave them vulnerable to big returns. Special teams coordinator Brant Boyer said: “Justin is irreplaceable in some ways, but Trey has shown promise on special teams all season. We’ve adjusted our coverage schemes to play to his strengths, and Cody’s experience will help us stay sharp.” Davis, who has played for the Rams, Jaguars, and Falcons, said he’s ready to contribute: “I know the Jets’ special teams system, and I’m here to help any way I can. These are important games, and I want to do my part.”

Looking ahead, Set Absence for Key Members of the New York Jets outlines the Jets’ plan to manage these absences and keep their playoff hopes alive. Saleh has emphasized “next man up” culture in team meetings, urging players to embrace expanded roles and step into leadership positions. The coaching staff has also adjusted practice schedules to give backups extra reps—including extended 11-on-11 drills for Warren and additional route-running sessions for backup receivers like Xavier Gipson and Mecole Hardman. For the New York Jets, the next two games (against the Chiefs and Bills) will be a test of their depth and adaptability. Saleh said: “Adversity reveals character. We’ve faced injuries all season, and each time, someone has stepped up. This is no different. We have the talent and the mindset to win these games—even without some of our key guys.” The Jets’ medical staff is also working to accelerate recoveries, with Wilson and Becton undergoing daily rehab sessions to return as soon as possible.

Set Absence for Key Members of the New York Jets is ultimately a story of resilience—of a team facing unexpected challenges and leaning on its depth and culture to overcome them. While the absences of Wilson, Ulbrich, Becton, and Hardee are significant, they also present opportunities for backups to prove themselves and for the team to grow stronger. For the Jets, these next few weeks will define their season: will they fold under the pressure of key losses, or will they rise to the occasion and keep their playoff dreams alive? For fans, the answer will reveal not just the team’s talent, but its heart—a quality that matters just as much in the NFL as skill. As the Jets prepare to face the Chiefs, one thing is clear: they’re not backing down—and they’re ready to fight for every win, no matter who’s in the lineup.