The New York Jets have waited a long time to see Jermaine Johnson look like himself again. After tearing his Achilles in Week 2 of the 2024 season, Johnson missed the remainder of the year and spent the offseason working his way back for a Week 1 return.
But Achilles injuries are notoriously difficult for edge rushers, who rely heavily on burst and lower-body explosiveness. It was always unlikely Johnson would immediately regain the Pro Bowl-caliber form he showed in 2023.
That reality was evident early in the season. Johnson flashed at times, but the consistency that defined his breakout season wasn’t quite there.