Saleh deflects on kicker’s job security

Jets kicker Matt Ammendola missed another field-goal attempt on Sunday, and his hold on the job has to be weakening.

Ammendola missed a 42-yard field goal against the Texans. He has now missed three field goals in the last

two weeks, five in the past six games. He is 13 of 19 this season and 2-for-8 from 40 yards or beyond.

Ammendola did make two field goals Sunday, including one in the fourth quarter to give the Jets a sevenpoint lead.

“To his credit, he came back and made a kick after the miss,” Jets coach Robert Saleh said. “I’ve got faith in all our guys. Has he hit a couple of bumps here the last couple of weeks?

Yeah. But at the same time, he’s made some big kicks for us this year. It’s just something we’ve got to continue to work on and grow through. He’s another rookie, for all intents and purposes. He’s got a very talented leg. He’s just got to find a way to get consistent and make those big kicks when he’s called on.”

This is Ammendola’s first season in the NFL after not playing last year. The Jets signed Alex Kessman to their practice squad last week, putting Ammendola’s hold on the job in question. Saleh would not say whether Ammedola’s job was secure.

“Those are always things we’re going to talk about,” Saleh said. “We have the young man we signed to the practice squad. Obviously, every week’s competition. Just like everyone, you’ve got to earn your keep. We’ll give him a chance to maintain his job.”

The Jets activated QB Joe Flacco off of the COVID-19 list on Monday. Flacco landed on the list as an unvaccinated close contact. QB Mike White tested positive last week and remains on the list. Saleh said it does not look like White will be able to play Sunday against the Eagles.

Jets OT Mekhi Becton (knee) will begin field work this week. That is the next step in him returning to practice and then games. Becton has been out since Week 1.