Minkah Fitzpatrick injury forces Jets to bring back a familiar face

There were so many things to be excited about after the New York Jets' Week 1 victory over the Tennessee Titans, including but not limited to the high-level play of the offense and encouraging play from Aaron Glenn's new defense, called by the head coach himself.

But the Jets didn't come out unscathed in Week 1, and they suffered some tough losses. Rookie wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. exited early with an ankle injury, and on the first defensive series, safety Minkah Fitzpatrick went down with an injured quad. He would not return.

We've yet to hear an update on Fitzpatrick, despite the national media receiving some information on Cooper's injury. But considering the Jets are reportedly making an addition to their practice squad, it doesn't sound like Fitzpatrick's injury is good news.

ESPN's Rich Cimini reported on Monday that New York is planning on bringing back defensive back Dean Clark to the practice squad. Cimini added that the addition is specifically because of much-needed depth in the secondary.

New York Jets re-sign Dean Clark to practice squad after Minkah Fitzpatrick injury

Clark, a 2025 undrafted free agent out of Fresno State, spent all of last season with the Jets. He appeared in 12 games, starting two of them, and recorded 14 tackles. According to Pro Football Focus, he allowed a passer rating of 118.8 when targeted in coverage.

The 25-year-old was with the Jets this past summer as well, but was unable to make the team's final 53-man roster. After just two weeks, though, it seems he's about to make his return.

With Clark's experience under Glenn and defensive coordinator Brian Duker this past summer, he gives the Jets some solid depth on the back end and may even see playing time if the injuries continue to pile up in the secondary.

D'Angelo Ponds needs to come back ASAP for the New York Jets

With Fitzpatrick's injury, the Jets really need second-round draft pick D'Angelo Ponds to make his return. The Indiana product was projected to be a key contributor for New York's defense after they made him the 50th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, but an injury has delayed his debut.

Ponds' calf prevented him from participating in both training camp and the preseason, marking a major setback in his development. The rookie was limited in practice all week, which is a positive sign in his recovery, but Glenn decided not to have him suit up for the season opener.

Even if he's not yet there in terms of mental reps for the Jets, they may end up desperately needing him on Sunday against the Green Bay Packers. Fitzpatrick's injury leaves them dangerously thin, particularly at nickel and safety.

The Clark signing will help their depth, but Ponds' talent could make an immediate impact in the Jets' secondary, which they really need right now.

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