Mims to return vs. Rams
The Jets could be getting some reinforcements before they return to the West Coast.
Wide receiver Denzel Mims is back with the team and in COVID-19 testing protocols, putting him in line to play next Sunday against the Rams in Los Angeles. The rookie was forced to miss Sunday’s loss to the Seahawks after having to go home to Texas for a family emergency last week.
Coach Adam Gase is also hoping to get kicker Sam Ficken (groin) and running back La’Mical Perine (highankle sprain) back at practice this week for the first time since both went on injured reserve Nov. 24.
“There is definitely [a chance],” Gase said of Ficken returning.
The Jets on Monday also claimed kicker Chase McLaughlin off waivers from the Jaguars, further putting in doubt Sergio Castillo’s future with the team after he missed three field goals in Sunday’s 40-3 loss. The 24-year-old McLaughlin made 4 of 5 field goals and 3 of 4 extra points with the Jaguars in three games this season.
➤ The running back rotation could change when Perine returns, but until then, Gase indicated he has no plans to sit Frank Gore to give Ty Johnson and Josh Adams more snaps. Last week against the Raiders, after the 37-year-old Gore left with a concussion on the second play of the day, the Jets had their best rushing game of the year (206 yards) with Johnson becoming the first 100yard rusher in Gase’s tenure.
Gore returned Sunday against the Seahawks, getting the first shot at carries, and the Jets rushed for just 69 yards.
“I mean, yeah, we had our best rushing game against Las Vegas, there’s a reason behind that, just kind of the way they were playing,” Gase said. “[The Seahawks were] a different team we were playing and they handle things a little differently. ... As for right now, we’re trying to give all those guys touches. That’s the decision that we’ve decided to make.”
➤ Safety Saquan Hampton, who was activated from the practice squad Saturday to make his Jets debut Sunday, ruptured his Achilles against the Seahawks and is out for the season.