Ryan Kalil’s Jets debut will have to wait at least another week, as the veteran center will not suit up against the Saints in Week 3 of the preseason as originally thought.
General manager Joe Douglas confirmed that Kalil would not play against New Orleans while speaking to the media prior to the game. Kalil is one of three starting offensive linemen sidelined on Saturday night, as both Kelechi Osemele and Brian Winters are inactive as well.
With Kalil, Osemele and Winters out, the Jets will have three reserve linemen blocking for Sam Darnold in a game where starters get extended run. Darnold fared well playing behind a makeshift offensive line against the Falcons last week, but will face a tougher task going up against a New Orleans front seven featuring Cameron Jordan and former Jet Demario Davis. Brandon Shell returns to the starting lineup after injuring his knee a week ago, which bodes well for Darnold’s chances of escaping the evening unscathed.
New York will also be without cornerbacks Trumaine Johnson and Kyron Brown for the second consecutive week due to hamstring injuries. Johnson and Brown’s absence opens the door for Arthur Maulet and Tevaughn Campbell to see more meaningful reps in a crucial week of the preseason. Waiver wire acquisition Marcus Cooper will also make his Jets debut against the Saints, giving defensive coordinator Gregg Williams to rotate in. Safety Derrick Kindred and linebacker Stephone Anthony will also make their Gang Green debuts against the Saints after being signed earlier in the week.
As for the Saints, starting tight end Jared Cook and linebacker Alex Anzalone are among the notable players out for New Orleans.
