\The New York Jets will be without their top cornerback Sauce Gardner for Sunday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Gardner has been ruled out with a concussion.
Jets coach Aaron Glenn confirmed that both Gardner and wide receiver Garrett Wilson are out, while quarterback Tyrod Taylor is questionable but improving.
Gardner suffered the concussion during Week 7 against the Carolina Panthers and did not return. The former first-team All-Pro is New York’s best defender, and his absence will be felt, especially against star receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
Brandon Stephens, a struggling free-agent signing, now faces a tough challenge in Gardner’s absence. Rookie Azareye’h Thomas, a third-round pick in 2025, is expected to start for the first time. Thomas, a former Florida State standout, has drawn comparisons to Gardner because of his size and length.
The Jets will be shorthanded on both offense and defense, missing their top wide receiver and cornerback. It’s also unclear who will start at quarterback, as Glenn did not confirm whether Justin Fields or Tyrod Taylor will take the first snap.
With so many key players out, it will be a major challenge for the Jets to earn their first win of the season in Cincinnati.
