Alijah Vera-Tucker stands out as the most underrated player on the New York Jets according to Pro Football Focus. Entering his fifth season, Vera-Tucker was drafted as the 14th overall pick in 2021 but faced significant challenges due to injuries in both 2022 and 2023. However, he has shown resilience and is poised to return to form, reinforcing the Jets' offensive line.

Despite his ups and downs, Vera-Tucker's performance has consistently exceeded his recognition among fans. As the Jets gear up for the 2025 season, his ability to anchor the offensive line will be crucial for their success. His development could prove pivotal, especially with the team's ambitions to solidify their playoff contention.

The New York Jets landed a prized right tackle in Armand Membou with the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, fulfilling a critical need in their offensive line. Membou's four-year contract, valued at nearly $32 million, sparked excitement not only for him but for the Jets as well, as he is expected to become a cornerstone on the line alongside fellow first-rounder Olu Fashanu. With no starting linemen over 27 years old, the Jets boast one of the youngest and most talented lines in the league, which bodes well for their offense moving forward.

Membou, who shared his awe at the size of his paycheck, is eager to contribute to the Jets’ success as they build a formidable offensive unit. With established players like Alijah Vera-Tucker, John Simpson, and Joe Tippmann anchoring the interior, the Jets’ offensive line is set to make significant strides in the upcoming season.

New York Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner will not participate in the season finale against the Miami Dolphins due to a hamstring injury sustained since Week 13. Gardner missed the previous matchup with the Dolphins and left last week’s game against Buffalo in the first half. Despite the injury, he completed his third season with one interception, a sack, nine passes defensed, and 49 tackles, maintaining his status as an All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection.

The Jets, who are finishing their season with a 4-12 record, will host the Dolphins, who are vying for a playoff spot. Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich announced that several players, including tight end Tyler Conklin and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, are game-time decisions due to various injuries.

Linebacker Jamien Sherwood has been recognized as the Jets’ MVP by his teammates, reflecting his growth from a backup to a key player. Sherwood leads the team with 148 tackles and has shown remarkable dedication and energy throughout the season, earning praise from Ulbrich. As he approaches free agency, there's optimism about his future in the league.

The Miami Dolphins face a challenging Week 18 matchup as quarterback Tua Tagovailoa remains doubtful due to ongoing injury concerns. Meanwhile, veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell has emerged on the injury report with a neck issue, raising questions about his availability for the game. The Dolphins also have several wide receivers listed as questionable, including Tyreek Hill, who missed practice due to illness, and Jaylen Waddle, who is dealing with a knee injury.

Additionally, Dee Eskridge has been added to the injury report with a finger injury, leaving the Dolphins with only three healthy wide receivers on their roster. The team could look to elevate a player from the practice squad to bolster their receiving corps. On the line, tackle Terron Armstead practiced for the first time this week, while safety Jevon Holland continues to battle a wrist injury. In contrast, safety Jordan Poyer has been cleared to play against the Jets.

On the other side, the New York Jets have ruled out cornerback Sauce Gardner due to a hamstring injury, while defensive lineman Leki Fotu is doubtful despite recent practice participation. Four other Jets players are listed as questionable, including tight end Tyler Conklin and offensive linemen Morgan Moses and Alijah Vera-Tucker, alongside defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. Both teams are navigating significant injury challenges as they prepare for this crucial matchup.

The Miami Dolphins are facing a challenging injury situation as quarterback Tua Tagovailoa's hip issue remains a focal point. On Wednesday, three starters, tackle Terron Armstead, safety Jordan Poyer, and linebacker Anthony Walker Jr., were unable to practice due to various injuries. Armstead had previously exited the Week 17 game against the Cleveland Browns, while Walker missed that game entirely. Poyer, despite his knee and finger issues, managed to start.

Additionally, Tagovailoa, along with wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, and safety Jevon Holland, were listed as limited participants in practice. The Dolphins also noted punter Jake Bailey's back injury, while linebacker Duke Riley was a full participant despite a foot issue.

On the other side, the New York Jets' injury report reflected a walk-through practice, leading to an estimation of player statuses. Five players were marked as Did Not Practice (DNP), including cornerback Sauce Gardner, defensive lineman Quinnen Williams, and guard Alijah Vera-Tucker. Tight end Tyler Conklin and tackle Morgan Moses also fell under the DNP category, while guard John Simpson was limited due to a groin injury.