Justin Fields sparked the Jets in their second preseason tilt, flashing decisive decisions and mobility that kept NYJ’s tempo buzzing. Armand Membou entered a brutal test at right tackle, a true measuring stick against a potential top defensive front. Jeremy Ruckert is building momentum in camp chatter, hinting at a blossoming connection with the Jets’ tight ends. Breece Hall remained the focal point of the ground game, even with limited touches, while Jermaine Johnson returned from the PUP with a burst that hints at immediate impact on defense. The night offered a clear snapshot of depth roles, upside for fantasy rosters, and how the Jets’ offense and defense might be shaped as the season nears.

Jermaine Johnson II is back on the practice field for the New York Jets after being activated off the physically unable to perform list, a major boost for a defense that already totaled 45 sacks last season even without him. Johnson, a 2022 first-round pick, posted a breakout 2023 with 7.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss and earned a Pro Bowl nod. His return should sharpen the Jets’ edge pressure and improve consistency in the front seven, a boon for fantasy managers eyeing sacks from the Jets’ defense.

Johnson’s health appears to be the priority as he follows a careful protocol to guard against a premature return. Coach Aaron Glenn emphasized long-term health over a quick flip of the switch, aiming for a sustainable impact once the regular season begins. The Jets also have joint practices with the Giants before facing a preseason game and then open the season at home on Sept. 7 against Rodgers and the Steelers. With Johnson in the mix, Jets defenders could climb into the league’s sack leaders and elevate IDP appeal in fantasy leagues.

Jermaine Johnson is back with the New York Jets after an 11-month recovery from a torn Achilles, activated off the active/physically unable to perform list. The 26-year-old edge rusher, a Pro Bowler in 2023, is set to bolster the Jets’ pass rush in 2025 and is positioned to be a key contributor as the team shifts from camp to a pivotal early-season slate. Johnson’s return coincides with joint practices against the Giants ahead of their preseason game, and it keeps him in the running for the Week 1 home date with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he’ll be matched up with a familiar name and a fresh start for a Jets defense intent on reclaiming its disruptive edge.

Aaron Rodgers, who himself rebuilt from an Achilles injury, has been a supportive voice, texting Johnson over the offseason and offering guidance on the rehab path. Johnson spoke about the emotional rebuild and the mindset shift that comes with returning to action, emphasizing the focus on performance once the whistles start. The Jets will lean on Johnson’s burst and technique to anchor a front that could influence every game script, from pass rush production to field-position battles in a crowded AFC slate.

From a fantasy-sports perspective, Johnson’s return elevates the Jets’ defensive ceiling, especially for IDP managers chasing sacks and QB pressures. Early-season expectations hinge on his health and ramp-up, but the upside is clear: Johnson can immediately contribute as a primary pass-rusher, improving sack and tackle opportunities for himself and boosting the Jets’ overall fantasy profile on a weekly basis as he reclaims his form.

Jermaine Johnson is back on the field for the New York Jets, activated from the physically unable to perform list after an 11-month recovery from a right Achilles rupture. Cleared to practice, he’s slated to be ready for the season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to coaching staff. Johnson’s return targets a revitalized edge as the Jets’ defense looks to rebound from last season’s surge in sacks. On the interior, Quinnen Williams has battled a calf strain and is nearing a return, which would solidify the DL rotation.

The Jets have two joint practices with the New York Giants this week, sandwiched around a preseason game, giving Johnson and Williams a meaningful live work window before Week 1. While the team plans a careful ramp, the combination of Johnson’s fresh legs and Williams’ imminent return could re-energize a front that’s been thin on the interior. Fantasy managers should monitor the workload and any gradual reintroduction to see how quickly the Jets can regain their disruptive edge.

In a nutshell, the Jets lean on a pair of returning anchors to bolster a defense that has shown flashes of elite pressure. The Giants tests and Steelers opener will shape how aggressive they play early, while Johnson’s and Williams’ health will largely determine whether this unit can carry fantasy value beyond Week 1.