Jets backup Tyrod Taylor sidelined by knee surgery

Jets backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor undergoes arthroscopic knee surgery and may miss the season opener.

Jets backup Tyrod Taylor sidelined by knee surgery ahead of Week 1

Tyrod Taylor will miss the remainder of the preseason after having arthroscopic knee surgery to address an ailment that has sidelined him for more than a week. Coach Aaron Glenn characterized the procedure as a minor scope but did not guarantee a return in time for Week 1 against the Steelers. Taylor, 36, is listed as the No. 2 quarterback behind Justin Fields, with Adrian Martinez and Brady Cook also in the mix for depth. Martinez has limited regular-season experience, while Cook, an undrafted rookie, left practice with an ankle injury that Glenn said is not believed to be serious.

In related health news, wide receiver Allen Lazard is expected to miss about two weeks with a right shoulder injury from Saturday’s preseason opener against the Packers. There is some positive news as rookie tight end Mason Taylor (high ankle sprain) and left guard John Simpson (back) returned to practice. Defenders Quinnen Williams (calf) and Jermaine Johnson (Achilles) also returned on a limited basis.

The injury tests the Jets’ depth at quarterback just as the regular season looms. With Taylor sidelined, the team must rely on a rotation that includes Martinez, who has no regular-season games, and Cook, a rookie still finding his footing. The situation underscores how quickly preseason plans can hinge on a single medical development.

Beyond quarterback depth, the Jets are managing a few dings to the roster while leaning on veterans to steady the room. If Taylor cannot be ready for Week 1, the early schedule may expose a thinner-than-expected backup group and force coaching staff decisions about how to deploy the offense in hostile environments.

Highlights

Depth and health will define the Jets’ start more than any playbook adjustment.