Jets’ Crowder tests positive for COVID-19

NEW YORK — The Jets got a bad break with just over a week before their season opener against the Carolina Panthers.

Jamison Crowder, who’s been dealing with a groin injury, tested positive for COVID-19 and his status for Week 1 is in doubt, according to the NFL Network.

Crowder has been placed on the team’s COVID-19 list.

His return will be determined by his vaccination status, the initial positive test and his symptoms. The Jets believe it’s an isolated case and don’t think it could spread across the team.

Vaccination status is key as an asymptomatic player can return to action after two negative tests 24 hours apart. For non-vaccinated players, a 10-day isolation period is required.

This is unfortunate timing for the Jets as Crowder has been their best receiver over the past two seasons. He’s logged 1,532 yards with 12 touchdowns and is going to be a key cog in the Jets receiving corps in 2021 and a key veteran to lean on for rookie quarterback Zach Wilson.

The Jets worked hard to update their offensive weapons in the offseason and have Wilson surrounded with a plethora of targets to make his life easier, including Crowder, Corey Davis, Elijah Moore, Keelan Cole and Denzel Mims.

The Jets receivers versus the Panthers defensive backs was one of the areas where the Jets had an advantage going into the season opener. But if Crowder is out that will only increase the difficulty level for Wilson. What Crowder brings to the table is a reliable route runner who can create separation, a valuable commodity for a young QB.

So without Crowder, the effectiveness of the offense could take a hit. And in Wilson’s first NFL start he needs all the weapons he can get.

However it’s not a doomsday scenario for Robert Saleh’s team if Crowder can’t play. Davis and Moore — the secondround pick out of Ole Miss — had phenomenal training camps and should fill some of the void.

Davis, who signed a 3year, $37.5 million deal in March, is going to be the No. 1 wide receiver for Wilson out of the gate. The 10 preseason targets in six offensive possessions showed a developing chemistry between the rookie QB and the former Titan.

Moore’s speed and route running provides a dynamic big-play ability that could create explosive plays for the Jets. The promising receiving duo can carry the load. But having three reliable options is better than two. So if Crowder is out, that will only put more pressure on Wilson going against the Panthers a week from Sunday in his first NFL start.

John Minchillo / Associated Press Jets WR Jamison Crowder has tested positive for COVID-19 according to a report, putting his ability to play in next week’s season opener in jeopardy.