Jets’ Osemele has shoulder surgery; New York calls it ‘unexcused absence’
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — New York Jets guard Kelechi Osemele had surgery on his ailing right shoulder Friday despite the team not approving the procedure.
The operation to repair a torn labrum was performed by Dr. Glen Ross in Boston, according to Osemele’s agent, Andrew Kessler.
The Jets were made aware of Osemele going forward with his plan to have surgery. But because he was not with the team and the surgery wasn’t approved, a person with direct knowledge of the situation said the Jets consider it an “unexcused absence.” The person spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the team has not publicly commented on the situation.
Osemele is officially listed by the team as doubtful to play Sunday at Jacksonville. He hasn’t taken the field since Week 3.
“I’m worried about Jacksonville,” coach Adam Gase said, declining comment on Osemele’s status.
Osemele and the Jets are locked in a standoff in which the player says he needs the surgery now.
“Now it’s at the point where I can’t do anything about it,” Osemele said of his shoulder Wednesday in the locker room.
The team believes the surgery could be delayed and he can play through it, and the Jets have been fining him for “conduct detrimental to the team” for not practicing.
The NFL Players Association released a statement Thursday saying it supports Osemele and is “considering all options to protect” him. The NFLPA also said it’s “not appropriate or ethical” for an employer to dictate any employee’s medical needs or treatment.