When training camp began this week, the Jets had no key defensive players. Jermaine Johnson has started a list that cannot be physically executed (pup).
The 26-year-old suffered from Achilles torn in the second week of the 2024 season. He had surgery after the injury occurred and used the time he recovered. Ten to 11 months later, Johnson received the news he wanted from his doctor. The former Pro Bowler announced he was fully permitted to return from Achilles’ injuries. Ahead of the 2025 season, major news for the New York Jets.
Jermaine Johnson makes the highly anticipated return for the Jets
#Jets Pass-Rusher Jermaine Johnson II announced that he was allowed to return from the torn Achilles, who suffered earlier last season. pic.twitter.com/zxoihcygyp
– Ari Meirov (@mysportsupdate) July 25th, 2025
On the 26th pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Jets selected Jermaine Johnson from Florida. As a rookie, Johnson played 16 of the team’s 17 games, but ended up with zero start. He finished the season with 2.5 sacks, 29 combined tackles and three tackles. Johnson was on the field in 2022 with 34% of New York’s defensive snaps. The following season, Johnson took a big step into Jets production.
In 2023, he began all 17 games in New York. Johnson recorded 7.5 sacks, one intercept for a touchdown, seven passes defended, combined with 55 tackles and lost 11 tackles. He was on the field in 2023 with 66% of the team’s defensive snaps. Jermaine Johnson suffered from Achilles torn in the second week of the 2024 season, missing out on almost a year for the Jets. Johnson started both games in which he appeared.
“We have a plan for him” – Jermaine Johnson’s timetable coach to return to practice pic.twitter.com/zypxgcz7ss
– New York Jets (@nyjets) July 24, 2025
Due to Achilles’ tears, young Edgelash needed surgery. Jermaine Johnson has been rehabilitating since fall to get ready for the first week. After a recent announcement from Johnson, all the signs point to him coming back. He posted on social media and said he recently returned from LA to visit with his doctor. They completely cleared up Johnson and returned to practice with the Jets.
Head coach Aaron Glenn said the team is planning for Johnson. They are excited about his return, but want to be cautious about the talented pass rush. Johnson will gradually increase in a way that goes back 100%. The last thing New York wants is to put a re-attack in danger.
