nfl
Jets starting DT David Onyemata undergoes core muscle surgery
Jets defensive tackle David Onyemata, a starter in the base defense, underwent core-muscle surgery and will be sidelined for several weeks.
Rich Cimini · 23 September 2026 21:19 · 2 min
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- New York Jets defensive tackle David Onyemata, a starter in the base defense, underwent core-muscle surgery and will be sidelined for several weeks.
Coach Aaron Glenn wouldn't rule him out for the remainder of the season, saying he expects the veteran run stuffer to return at some point.
"I would think so," Glenn said Wednesday.
Onyemata, 33, was injured in the Jets' 20-17 overtime loss to the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. The Jets signed him to a one-year, $10.5 million contract in free agency, expecting him to bolster their run defense and provide veteran leadership for a young roster.
In two games, Onyemata played 45 defensive snaps, with no tackles, no sacks and three quarterback pressures. Onyemata, who played previously for the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons, is in his 11th season.
Jowon Briggs likely will replace him in the base defense. It also could mean a bigger role for rookie Darrell Jackson Jr., a fourth-round pick from Florida State.
The Jets, who finished 25th in yards allowed in 2025, are No. 1 after two weeks despite key injuries on defense. Edge rusher Joseph Ossai (foot) has missed two games, while safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (groin) has missed one. Ossai is "pretty close" to being ready, according to Glenn. Fitzpatrick, still not practicing, may need another week.
The Jets (1-1) travel to the Detroit Lions (1-1) on Sunday.
Wide receiver Arian Smith, a 2025 fourth-round pick, is gone for the season after tearing an ACL. He, too, was injured against the Packers. He had no receptions this season; he made the roster because of his ability as a gunner on special teams. He missed a tackle at the catch point on Skyy Moore's 63-yard punt return, but raced downfield and pushed Moore out of bounds at the Jets' 19-yard line in the fourth quarter. The Jets wound up holding the Packers to a field goal.
Both Smith and Onyemata were placed on injured reserve.
Another injury to watch: Tight end Mason Taylor (thumb) didn't practice, and his status for Sunday appears uncertain.
