O-line injuries no excuse for struggles

Spencer Long’s introduction to the Jets’ offensive line has been stalled a bit with injuries around him, but the center isn’t using that as an excuse for the unit’s tough game against the Redskins on Thursday night.

“It’s coming [together], but our sense of urgency needs to pick up,” said Long, who signed a four-year, $27 million contract. “This is the time we make a big jump, this week, and hopefully we can get all five in there rolling this week. Now it’s just time to clean up the little stuff and learn from the first two weeks of camp and really make a jump.”

The Jets got some good news Saturday as left tackle Kelvin Beachum (foot) and right guard Brian Winters (abdomen) returned to limited prac- tice after neither played against the Redskins. They joined the starting line in offensive drills, but once the offense lined up against the defense, they turned into spectators.

“They’re close,” coach Todd Bowles said. “We’re just playing them slow. They’re close and we’re working them in slowly. We’re going to take our time with them.”

Bowles said he was “hopeful” both will be back to full strength in time for the regular season.

The offensive line gave up four sacks against the Redskins, with Brent Qvale and Jonotthan Harrison subbing in as starters alongside Long, Brandon Shell and James Carpenter.

Beachum did not make the trip to Virginia because of his injury, so he was relieved to be back on the field.

“It felt great to be back out there,” Beachum said. “It felt like forever, so it was great to be out there.”

Quincy Enunwa returned to practice after an injury earlier in camp. He got some reps during the team drills and continues his journey back to the regular season after missing all of last year with a neck injury.

“He looked quick. He should have the freshest legs in camp,” Bowles quipped. “But he caught the ball well. We’re working him in slow. Happy to have him back.”

Cornerback Parry Nickerson, running back Isaiah Crowell and linebacker Lorenzo Mauldin were among those who also returned to practice.