After weeks of disputing whether or not Kelechi Osemele can have surgery on his injured shoulder, the Jets have decided to move on from him.
The Jets announced Saturday that they released Osemele and activated linebacker James Burgess from the practice squad. They also signed linebacker Ukeme Eligwe to the practice squad to fill Burgess’s spot.
Osemele’s agent released a statement following his release:
“The Jets owe him the balance of his contract both under the Standard Injury Guarantee Provision of the Player Contract and under Termination Pay. We will pursue … all fines to be rescinded through grievances.”
This situation began a few weeks ago when Osemele appeared on the injury report with a shoulder issue. It didn’t appear to be a long-term issue at first, until Osemele started missing multiple practices and games. He then had the team doctor look at his shoulder and came to the conclusion that he had a torn labrum, but didn’t need surgery.
Osemele, on his own, sought second and third opinions on his shoulder; both doctors recommended surgery. Osemele said that the Jets inadvertently sent blank MRIs to doctors and the NFLPA got involved with the matter, supporting the lineman.
With Osemele officially released, this now turns into a legal matter. Osemele has filed a grievance against the Jets in hopes of getting the remaining balance on his contract. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, there was more damage on his shoulder than expected, so Osemele’s representatives and the NFLPA are considering taking action against the Jets team doctor for violations of State Medical Board Regulations.
While Osemele is no longer a Jet, this matter is far from settled.
