Jermaine Johnson, the New York Jets’ rapidly rising star at defensive end, is pumped to retake the field after a long-anticipated return. He’s readying himself for the New Orleans Saints season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers. After a very up and down year of injury, Johnson looks to return to form and attack the 2023 season from an impactful flank once again. He even earned a 7.5 sack total in 2023 alone. His exceptional talent would ultimately win out, as he became a Pro Bowl selection as an injury replacement.
Enter the season prior, Johnson’s biggest test. In action against the Tennessee Titans in Week 2, he ruptured his right Achilles. Coach Aaron Glenn has all but assured Johnson will be on the field when the regular season kicks off. Still, he hasn’t been involved in minicamp and could open training camp on the physically unable to perform list. Barring any setbacks, this high-profile comeback will be one of many storylines to watch for the Jets as they begin their 2019 journey.
Johnson was particularly thankful to quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who was instrumental in Johnson’s recovery journey. The Jets’ new quarterback provided support during Johnson’s rehabilitation, even going so far as to cover the travel expenses for Johnson’s surgery, which was performed by a Los Angeles-based surgeon. Johnson described his surprise at Rodgers’ generosity, stating, “I was blown away when I learned that Aaron Rodgers had picked up the tab for the travel costs for my surgery.”
The bond between Johnson and Rodgers has developed over the year they’ve spent together so far. As for coordination with Landing, Johnson said that they have been in almost daily communication with one another, and even were texting back-and-forth Monday night. He acknowledged Rodgers’ influence on his mindset during recovery, saying, “The first thing he said was, ‘You’ll be good, you’ve got a 10-year-plus career. You’re all right, chalk it up.’”
Johnson to match up against Rodgers in what is sure to be an intensely emotional game. Knowing what’s at stake He knows this isn’t just any other rivalry game. “I think he knows that, and he feels the same stuff,” Johnson remarked. “I’m excited. To everyone else it’s just another game, but for me it’s going to be my first game back. It’s going to be very emotional and when my emotions are high, I know for sure that I can play some damn good basketball.
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